Transforming AI Security: KISA's 2024 Program
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Summary
- Program Objectives and Purpose
- Program Details
- Eligibility and Support Criteria
- Technical and Development Support
- Past Support Programs and Limitations
- Conclusion
1. Summary
The 2024 AI Security Product and Service Support Program is an ambitious initiative by the Korea Internet & Security Agency (KISA) designed to bolster the development of AI-driven security solutions. The program's objectives are to enhance the competitiveness of AI security firms, facilitate collaboration, and optimize the utilization of real-world data in security products. With a budget of 400 million KRW, the program offers financial and technical support to companies developing new AI security products. Eligibility criteria are stringent: both small and large enterprises can apply but must focus on technologies with a Technology Readiness Level of 4 or below. The program emphasizes the importance of practical data validation in ensuring the effectiveness of AI technologies in security applications. Companies are required to cover a percentage of the project costs, varying by company size. The 2024 program builds on past efforts while introducing enhanced support mechanisms for commercialization and technological consultation.
2. Program Objectives and Purpose
2-1. Overview of the AI Security Market Growth
The growth of the AI security market is significant, characterized by an increasing demand for advanced security solutions that integrate AI technologies. As cyber threats evolve in complexity and volume, businesses are motivated to enhance their defense mechanisms through innovative AI-based security products. The current expansion is driven by the urgent need to address sophisticated cyber threats and the evolving landscape of AI technology.
2-2. Goals of the 2024 Support Program
The primary goal of the 2024 AI Security Product and Service Support Program is to enhance the competitiveness of companies developing AI security products and services. This is achieved by providing financial assistance and practical data utilization opportunities for real-world implementations. The program aims to encourage participation from various stakeholders in the technology sector, fostering collaboration that supports the expansion of robust AI security solutions in both public and private sectors.
2-3. Importance of Practical Data Utilization
Practical data utilization is critical in the development and refinement of AI security solutions. The support program emphasizes the need for applying real data to test and validate the effectiveness of AI technologies in security applications. By leveraging real-world scenarios and data, participating companies can enhance their products, ensuring they meet market demands and improve their operational relevance in preventing cyber threats.
3. Program Details
3-1. Program Name and Duration
The program is titled '2024 AI Security Product and Service Support Program' and is set to operate from the signing date of the agreement until December 20, 2024, which encompasses a duration of approximately 7 months.
3-2. Funding Overview and Budget Allocation
The total budget for the program is 400 million KRW (approximately $360,000). Up to 200 million KRW (approximately $180,000) can be supported for each of the two projects under this program.
3-3. Application Process and Timeline
The application period for the program is from May 13, 2024, to May 31, 2024, with submissions required by 2:00 PM on the final day. The application must be submitted through the KISA electronic contracting system, and potential applicants are encouraged to complete their applications at least two hours before the deadline to avoid any issues with system access.
4. Eligibility and Support Criteria
4-1. Eligibility Requirements for Participating Companies
To be eligible for the 2024 AI Security Prototype Development Support Project, companies must develop new security products or services utilizing AI technology. There are no size restrictions on participating companies; both small, medium, and large enterprises are allowed to participate. Companies that have previously received support under any other KISA AI security support project from 2021 to 2023 for the same or similar project are not eligible to apply. However, companies can apply for a different project if they submit a justification letter. Furthermore, only companies proposing technologies that are at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or below are eligible. Technologies that have reached TRL 5 or above, or that have already been commercialized, cannot participate.
4-2. Support Provided to Selected Companies
Selected companies will receive financial support up to 250 million KRW per project, which is limited to 50% of the total budget for large enterprises, 70% for medium enterprises, and 75% for small enterprises. The participating companies must cover at least 25% of the total project cost in cash or in-kind contributions, with cash contributions specifically required from large companies at 15%, medium companies at 13%, and small companies at 10% of the total project cost. Additionally, support mechanisms include technology consulting tailored to aid the development of outstanding AI security prototypes, and growth support in areas such as commercialization consulting, certification acquisition, investment attraction, and technology value assessment.
4-3. Funding Conditions and Matching Requirements
The government’s maximum contribution is 250 million KRW per project. Companies must match this funding according to their size, with specific contributions required from the private sector. The initial payment upon project commencement is 70% of the government support, with the remaining 30% provided after a mid-term evaluation. The project budget must comply with KISA guidelines, ensuring that companies adhere to requirements regarding cash and in-kind contributions to meet matching fund ratios. It's crucial for the applicant to plan their project budget appropriately and consider all funding conditions while preparing their application.
5. Technical and Development Support
5-1. Technical Consulting and Development Assistance
The report emphasizes the provision of technical consulting and development assistance to companies participating in the 2024 AI Security Product and Service Support Program. This support is designed to enhance the capabilities of these companies in developing secure AI products and services. Specifically, it includes tailored consulting to help businesses refine their technologies, aiding them in achieving maturity and effectiveness in their AI solutions.
5-2. Support for Product and Service Commercialization
A key focus of the support program is to facilitate the commercialization of AI security products and services. This involves offering financial backing for the development of prototypes and providing pathways for market entry. The program aims to reduce barriers to market access, enabling participating firms to introduce their innovations effectively within both public and private sectors.
5-3. Promotional Activities for Successful Projects
In order to ensure the success of projects funded through the program, promotional activities are a vital component. The report details how participating companies will engage in various marketing initiatives to showcase their solutions. These activities include organizing seminars, participating in industry exhibitions, and setting up presentations to authorities and potential clients to demonstrate the capabilities and advantages of their specific AI security products.
6. Past Support Programs and Limitations
6-1. Overview of Previous AI Security Support Programs
The 2024 AI Security Product Development Support Program, announced by KISA, is set against the backdrop of increasing application of AI technology in information security products and services, and a rise in sophisticated cyber threats. Previous support programs aimed at enhancing the R&D capacities of promising AI security firms included initiatives from 2021 to 2023, notably the 2021 AI-based Security Product and Service Development Support Project, the 2022 AI Security Prototype Development Project, and various programs in 2023 targeting both prototype development and commercialization.
6-2. Limitations for Reapplying for Similar Projects
Firms that have previously received support for similar projects from KISA between 2021 and 2023 are disallowed from reapplying for identical or similar projects. However, applicants who apply for different projects than those previously supported may still be eligible for funding, provided they submit a justification letter.
6-3. Criteria for Exclusion from Support
Eligibility for the funding excludes firms which have applied for and received government support for similar projects, such as grants from the Ministry of SMEs and Startups. Additionally, only those projects with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 4 or below are eligible, barring TRL 5 or higher technologies and those already commercialized.
Conclusion
The 2024 AI Security Product and Service Support Program by KISA presents significant opportunities for innovation in the AI security landscape. By committing substantial resources and promoting extensive collaboration, the initiative aims to address the needs of both private and public sectors dealing with evolving cyber threats. The emphasis on using real-world data ensures that the solutions developed are both practical and relevant. Despite the opportunities, the program imposes rigorous eligibility criteria and financial prerequisites that applicants must carefully consider. While this reflects KISA's commitment to high standards and impactful results, it may limit participation to only those companies that can adhere strictly to these requirements. Looking forward, the success of this program could set a precedent for similar initiatives internationally, encouraging governments and organizations to adopt proactive measures toward AI security enhancements. Practical applications of this program's outcomes are expected to improve the robustness of security infrastructures, significantly contributing to a safer digital environment in South Korea and potentially globally.