- NHN Cloud, SBC, and the AI association sign an MoU to support AI-driven SMEs and regional innovation
- Focus on AI skills, training programs, and workforce development to drive SME growth
- Support combines funding, infrastructure, and education to enable AI adoption and scaling
NHN Cloud has partnered with the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (SBC) and the AI Industry-Academia-Research Association to support AI-focused small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in South Korea’s Honam region. The collaboration aims to strengthen AI skills, improve job readiness, and help companies adopt advanced technologies.
The agreement was signed at the Gwangju AI Data Center, the country’s first AI-focused data facility. It aligns with the government’s regional development strategy and aims to build a strong AI ecosystem while promoting digital transformation across industries, especially manufacturing.
A key focus of the partnership is education and skill development. The initiative will offer training programs, industry-specific learning modules, and hands-on technical support to help businesses and professionals adopt AI technologies. This will also create new job opportunities and improve workforce readiness in the region.
SBC will provide funding support through investments and loans, along with export assistance and startup development programs. It will also offer customized training and mentoring based on different stages of business growth, helping companies scale effectively.
The AI Industry-Academia-Research Association will act as a bridge between companies and policymakers. It will identify firms that need support and ensure they benefit from the available resources, while also sharing industry needs with stakeholders.
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NHN Cloud will deliver critical infrastructure, including cloud credits, security tools, and high-performance GPU systems. These resources will allow companies to develop AI solutions without heavy upfront costs. The company will also continue offering AI education and technical guidance.
Overall, the partnership is expected to accelerate AI adoption, strengthen skills, and boost employment opportunities, while building a sustainable AI-driven business ecosystem in the region.
