We are pleased to announce the 2026 FIN:NECT Challenge, organized by Korea Fintech Support Center and KakaoBank.
This program invites participants to identify everyday financial challenges and develop innovative business models using AI. It is a great opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to turn ideas into real-world solutions in the fintech and AI sectors.
■ Theme
[Fintech]
- Inclusive finance (e.g., financial apps for the elderly, accessible services for people with disabilities, SME support platforms)
- Digital finance (e.g., AI-based fraud detection, digital financial literacy platforms, remote identity verification)
- Other fintech-related business ideas
[AI Business]
- AI Commerce & Marketing (e.g., personalized recommendation platforms, generative AI ad tools)
- AI Platform Business (e.g., automation agents, data analytics platforms, B2B SaaS solutions)
- AI Healthcare & Lifestyle (e.g., health coaching apps, diet management, mental health monitoring)
- AI Social Impact (e.g., AI education for underserved groups, carbon reduction data services)
- Other AI-based business ideas
■ Schedule
- Application Period: April 13 – May 25, 2026 (23:59)
- Final Selection Announcement: June 5, 2026
■ Eligibility
- Individuals or teams (up to 5 members) without a registered business entity
- Must be eligible for overseas travel and able to participate in the full program
■ How to Apply
■ Benefits
- Activity support funding (up to KRW 500,000 per team)
- Top 6 teams: Opportunity to attend TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 in Silicon Valley
- Customized mentoring (4 sessions per team)
- Training programs in entrepreneurship, AI, and fintech
■ Inquiries
