Background and Purpose of the AI+S&T Innovation Program
In 2026, Korea's Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) officially launched the AI+S&T Innovation Technology Development Program, a new R&D support framework designed to integrate artificial intelligence with science and technology across traditional industries. As a cornerstone of the national "2030 AI Powerhouse" strategy, this program shifts the emphasis from conventional research grants toward commercialization-driven R&D—requiring applicants to demonstrate how AI directly solves real-world problems in manufacturing, biotech, energy, and advanced materials.
The defining difference from legacy R&D programs is that applying AI is a mandatory requirement, not an optional element. Projects must show AI-driven innovation in an industrial context, and the evaluation system reflects this: "AI innovation and distinctiveness" alone accounts for 25 out of 100 evaluation points, a notably higher weighting than in standard technology R&D grants.
Eligibility and Funding Scale
Eligibility requirements include:
Two funding tracks are available:
Approximately 100 new projects are expected to be selected in 2026—70 Growth-Stage and 30 Leader-Stage.
Full Breakdown of Evaluation Criteria
Technology Assessment (50 points)
Business Viability Assessment (35 points)
Execution Capability Assessment (15 points)
7 Strategies for a Winning Business Plan
1. Prove AI differentiation with hard numbers
Present concrete benchmark data—e.g., defect detection accuracy of 97.3% vs. the industry baseline of 82%. Vague claims about AI capabilities are a common reason for low scores.
2. Build a clear problem–AI–solution narrative
The proposal must flow logically: specific industry pain point → rationale for AI application → measurable outcome. Evaluators penalize plans where the AI component feels bolted on.
3. Specify your data acquisition plan in detail
Describe the volume, quality, and sourcing pipeline for AI training data. Attaching a signed data partnership agreement significantly strengthens your technical feasibility score.
4. Cite credible, verifiable market research
Reference reports from IDC, Gartner, or KISTEP (Korea Institute of S&T Evaluation and Planning). Present domestic and international markets as separate analyses rather than bundling them together.
5. Structure your commercialization roadmap in distinct phases
Map out clear milestones: PoC and pilot during the project → early customer acquisition immediately after completion → full revenue scale-up within 3 years.
6. Reframe your track record around AI continuity
Rather than listing past patents and awards in isolation, show how they connect to and logically lead to the current AI-driven project.
7. Include dedicated AI specialists on your research team
List researchers with AI degrees or relevant work experience as core personnel. If in-house expertise is limited, consider joint participation with a university or government research institute to fill the gap.
Pre-Application Checklist
Before submitting, verify every item on this list:
Key 2026 dates (subject to change): Announcement April → Application window May–June → Presentation evaluation July–August → Project kick-off September
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KITIM offers end-to-end support for AI+S&T program applicants—from initial strategy and business plan writing to IRIS registration and presentation coaching. If you are unsure where to start or how to maximize your score on each evaluation criterion, contact a KITIM consultant today for a free initial consultation.