We are discovering outstanding small and midsize enterprises that strengthen industrial competitiveness through AI-based innovation.
ChosunBiz, the business-focused outlet of the Chosun Media Group, will host the "2026 SME AX Leaders Awards."
The global industrial sector is rapidly shifting beyond digital transformation (DX) to an evolved, AI-based innovation paradigm, AX (AI transformation).
Industrial sites in Korea are also changing by using AI technologies to boost productivity and efficiency and create new business value. In particular, small and midsize enterprises—the backbone of the industrial ecosystem—are accelerating AX innovation and drawing attention as a new growth engine for the Korean economy.
ChosunBiz will select small and midsize enterprises that are achieving results in work innovation and competitiveness through AX and present the "2026 SME AX Leaders Awards," with the aim of widely disseminating innovation cases among domestic small and midsize enterprises. Outstanding corporations will be chosen through expert review based on a comprehensive evaluation of technological strength and innovativeness, business performance, and growth potential.
The institutional sector consists of the Minister of SMEs and Startups Award, the ChosunBiz CEO Award, the Grand Prize, and the Future Innovation Prize. Any small and midsize enterprise that has used AI technology to pursue management innovation and strengthen industrial competitiveness may apply without industry restrictions.
The "2026 SME AX Leaders Awards" will go beyond a simple ceremony to share exemplary cases of AI transition by domestic small and midsize enterprises and highlight the growth potential of K-SMEs with global competitiveness. In particular, it is meaningful in discovering next-generation growth corporations that will lead the future of the Korean economy through AI-based innovation.
We look forward to strong interest and participation from small and midsize enterprises preparing for the future through AX innovation.
<2026 SME AX Leaders Awards>
▲Host: ChosunBiz
▲Eligible applicants: small and midsize enterprises nationwide adopting AI technology
▲How to apply: download the application form from the website (http://e.chosunbiz.com) → complete it and submit by email (award@chosunbiz.com)
▲Schedule: May 26–June 12, deadline 5 p.m.
▲Inquiries: SME AX Leaders Awards Secretariat (02)724-6032, award@chosunbiz.com
▲Announcement: June 22
▲Awards ceremony: July 9