Deadline Date: June 30, 2026
The CIIP Physical AI delegation takes Canadian SMEs in physical AI to Seoul to build R&D partnerships with South Korean companies and research groups.
The delegation is designed to facilitate industrial research and development collaboration between Canadian SMEs and South Korean partners in the field of physical AI. The program supports the development of robotics and autonomous systems software, including sensing, perception, and control, as well as AI models and software for physical systems such as embodied and agentic AI. It also focuses on AI-enabled manufacturing, automation, and system integration solutions. The initiative enables co-innovation activities such as validating Canadian technologies in the South Korean market, adapting solutions to meet Korean industry needs, and jointly developing new products or services that combine Canadian and South Korean technologies.
Eligible applicants are profit-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises incorporated in Canada with prior experience in commercializing technology in domestic or international markets. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity and interest to co-develop technology with South Korean partners and show commitment to expanding activities in the South Korean market. They must also have sufficient working capital and human resources to undertake a multi-year co-innovation project and commercialize the results. Non-profit organizations, universities, research technology organizations, incubators, and industry associations may apply for participation in the delegation but are not eligible for financial support.
The Canadian International Innovation Program (CIIP) may provide financial assistance covering up to 50% of eligible expenses for selected SMEs participating in the delegation. Eligible costs include economy-class airfare, local transportation, accommodation, per diem, and conference registration fees. The support applies to participation in the in-person Partnership Development Activity taking place in Seoul, South Korea, from November 2 to 5, 2026.
Applications are assessed by Global Affairs Canada through the Embassy of Canada to the Republic of Korea. Selection is based on the quality of the application, the technical merit of the proposed technology, and the applicant’s capacity to manage international R&D collaboration with South Korean partners. Participation is limited and competitive, and only selected companies will be invited to apply for financial support. Successful applicants are notified after review and invited to join the delegation program, which includes pre-departure briefings, pre-arranged B2B meetings, networking sessions, site visits, and participation in RobotWorld 2026 in South Korea.
For more information, visit Government of Canada.
