NOFO: Promoting Economic Security and Responsible Usage of Emerging Technologies (South Korea)

This Notice of Funding Opportunity builds upon the theme of the 2024 Summit for Democracy, “Democracy for Future Generations,” hosted this year by the Republic of Korea. The Summit for Democracy is a global initiative that highlights the critical role of democracy, transparency, and inclusivity in tackling the world’s most pressing challenges.

Embassy Seoul strongly encourages proposals that include substantial outreach in areas outside of the Seoul Metropolitan region. Program activities should take place primarily in the Republic of Korea. Programs in the United States and/or third countries will only be considered with extremely strong justification and/or significant cost sharing (including but not limited to travel expenses and in-kind contributions). Virtual components may be considered to supplement activities within Korea.

Program Areas

• Program Area 1) Promoting Economic Security in the Indo-Pacific Region 
  • The Indo-Pacific region is pivotal in shaping global economic security landscapes. Understanding the key themes and strategic importance of multilateral agreements and frameworks in this region is crucial for informed decision-making and policy development.
  • Objective: Embassy Seoul seeks proposals that:
    • Increase understanding of critical economic security themes in the Indo-Pacific region.
    • Analyze the benefits of strategic frameworks and agreements for economic security.
  • Target Audience: International trade and economic security experts from the academic, think tank, government, and private sectors.
  • Expected activities: Workshops and seminars, Policy briefings, Public awareness activities.
• Program Area 2) Leveraging Emerging Technologies to Tackle Global Challenges 
  • Emerging technologies, such as AI and climate technology, hold significant potential in addressing pressing global challenges like climate change, disinformation, and the transformation of traditional trade markets. Harnessing these technologies, when done responsibly, can lead to innovative solutions and a more sustainable future.
  • Objective: Embassy Seoul seeks proposals that:
    • Promote the use of advanced technologies to address global challenges.
    • Foster knowledge sharing between tech experts and diverse audiences.
    • Explore tangible applications of emerging technology in areas like carbon emission reduction, combating disinformation, and transforming e-commerce.
  • Target Audience: Climate tech experts, policymakers, industry leaders, e-commerce experts, SMEs, and ROK youth groups involved in AI, web/app development, data science, programming, entrepreneurship, and machine learning.
  • Expected activities: Workshops, hackathons, mentorship programs, training.

Funding Information

• Length of performance period: 6 to 12 months
• Number of awards anticipated: 2 – 5 awards (dependent on amounts)
• Award amounts: awards may range from a minimum of $1,000 to a maximum of $100,000, with typical grants expected in the $25,000 range.
• Total available funding: $200,000

Participants and Audiences

• Participants should reflect the United States government’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility.

Eligible Applicants

• The Public Diplomacy Section encourages applications from U.S. and ROK organizations: For example:
  • Not-for-profit organizations, including think tanks and civil society/non-governmental organizations
  • Public and private educational institutions
  • Public International Organizations (PIOs) and (Non-U.S.) Governmental institutions
• Note: Preference will be given to ROK-based not-for-profit organizations that have partnerships with organizations in the United States, or vice-versa.
• For-profit or commercial entities are not eligible to apply.

For more information, visit U.S. Embassy & Consulate in The Republic of Korea.