We are discovering outstanding small and medium-sized enterprises that strengthen industrial competitiveness through AI-based innovation.
ChosunBiz, the economic news outlet of the Chosun Media Group, will host the 2026 SME AX Leaders Awards.
The global industrial sector is rapidly shifting its paradigm beyond digital transformation (DX) to evolved, AI-based innovation, AX (AI transformation).
Industrial sites in Korea are also changing by using AI technology to boost productivity and efficiency and create new business value. In particular, small and medium-sized 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 medium-sized enterprises that are achieving results in business innovation and competitiveness through AX and present the 2026 SME AX Leaders Awards, aiming to widely spread the innovation cases of domestic small and medium-sized enterprises. We will select outstanding corporations through expert screening based on a comprehensive evaluation of technological prowess and innovativeness, business performance, and growth potential.
The award categories consist of: ▲ Minister of SMEs and Startups Award ▲ ChosunBiz CEO Award ▲ Grand Prize ▲ Future Innovation Award. Any small and medium-sized enterprise that is pursuing management innovation and strengthening industrial competitiveness using AI technology can apply, regardless of industry.
The 2026 SME AX Leaders Awards will go beyond simple recognition to share best practices of AI transition among domestic small and medium-sized enterprises and highlight the growth potential of K-SMEs with global competitiveness. In particular, it is meaningful for 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 medium-sized enterprises preparing for the future through AX innovation.
<2026 SME AX Leaders Awards>
▲ Host: ChosunBiz
▲ Eligible applicants: Small and medium-sized 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
▲ Award ceremony: July 9