SK Telecom is launching an AI startup discovery and incubation program called "SKTCH with AI" and is recruiting participating startups.

SKTCH is a portmanteau of SKT and Tech. It is a platform operated by SKT to discover promising startups and strengthen collaboration. It carries the meaning that SKT and startups will draw the future together.

Through SKTCH with AI, SKT will connect its AI technology, infrastructure and business capabilities with startups. It will select 15 companies by evaluating factors such as AI technology competitiveness and collaboration potential.

Selected startups will be provided with expert mentoring and seminars for six months, collaboration with SKT and business advancement, participation in exhibitions at home and abroad, management infrastructure such as office space, and opportunities to attract investment from venture capital firms and related institutions.

Startups wishing to participate can apply through the SKTCH website by Aug. 18. SKT's AI agent, "AI Screening Officer", will also take part in the selection process. SKT plans to have AI conduct preliminary screening in areas where clear judgments can be made, while people focus their capabilities on parts that require detailed review.

SKT previously launched an ESG startup discovery and incubation program called "SKTCH for Good" in April, and selected 13 companies after a competition ratio of more than 10 to 1. By field, there were 9 companies in digital inclusion and care, 3 in climate disaster response, and 1 in digital crime prevention.

Eom Jong-hwan (엄종환), head of SKT's Sustainable Management Office, said, "When SKT's AI technology and capabilities meet startups' innovative ideas, they can create greater synergy." He added, "As an AI partner that grows together with startups, we will continue to expand the collaboration ecosystem."