World Bank GovTech AI Bootcamp 2026

The World Bank, in partnership with the Republic of Korea's Ministry of the Interior and Safety and the National Information Society Agency, invites government institutions in low- and middle-income countries to apply for a fully funded AI-focused bootcamp in Seoul.

What it offers

• Up to five government teams will be selected.
• A five-day technical bootcamp in Seoul from December 7–11, 2026.
• Direct learning from practitioners who design, operate, and scale Korea’s public AI systems.
• Hands-on workshops to develop implementation roadmaps for AI initiatives.
• Potential follow-up support and technical feedback after the bootcamp.

Who can apply

• Government institutions from low- and middle-income countries, including upper-middle-income countries.
• Only government agencies may apply; NGOs or international organizations cannot apply on behalf of governments.
• Multiple agencies from the same country may apply, but only one team per country will be selected.
• Prior participation in World Bank GovTech programs does not disqualify applicants.

What you'll do

• Each team must consist of two people: a policy leader with decision-making authority and a technical practitioner involved in implementation.
• The bootcamp will be conducted in English with Korean-English interpretation.
• Participants will engage in site visits, exchanges with practitioners, and hands-on workshops to refine AI solutions and address technical bottlenecks.

How to apply

• Submit applications through the Official Submission Form by October 2, 2026.
• Applications should describe the public sector challenge, proposed AI solution, technical and data readiness, institutional support, implementation risks, learning objectives, and next steps.
• Supporting materials such as endorsement letters, technical diagrams, policy documents, or budget commitments may be submitted.
• Information sessions will be offered across three time zones.

Good to know

• Proposals at any stage—concept, prototype, pilot, or deployment—are eligible.
• Proposals demonstrating concrete institutional backing and actionable plans will be prioritized.
• The policy lead should have genuine decision-making authority over the AI initiative.
• The technical practitioner does not need to be a programmer but must have hands-on involvement in the AI solution.