This study empirically examines how investment-based policy finance, as provided by the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME), influences the financial performance and survival of SMEs. Firm-level data from 2020 to 2022 were utilized, and comparable ...
This study empirically examines how investment-based policy finance, as provided by the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME), influences the financial performance and survival of SMEs. Firm-level data from 2020 to 2022 were utilized, and comparable groups were constructed using Propensity Score Matching (PSM). Subsequently, Difference-in-Differences (DID) analysis and survival analysis employing Kaplan–Meier estimation and Cox proportional hazards models were conducted.
The findings indicate that investment support has more favorable effects on key stability indicators—particularly by reducing debt ratios and improving capital structure—compared to non-investment firms. While conventional loan support alleviated liquidity constraints in the short term, it tended to increase financial burdens over time. In contrast, investment-based support mitigated leverage pressure and contributed to the formation of a more sustainable financial structure. Although the effects on growth and profitability varied across years, investment support did not undermine performance and, in some cases, showed modest improvements. Survival analysis further revealed that firms receiving investment support exhibited a somewhat lower hazard of exit than non-investment firms, suggesting a positive contribution to long-term corporate sustainability.
This study provides empirical evidence on the differentiated effects of policy finance instruments, thereby extending prior research that has predominantly focused on guarantee-centered programs. From a policy perspective, the findings emphasize the need to expand investment-oriented and hybrid financing schemes to strengthen the financial resilience and long-term competitiveness of SMEs.