World Bank Group Global Program on GovTech & Public Sector Innovation 2026
The World Bank Group is inviting government institutions from low- and middle-income countries to apply for its 2026 Global Program on GovTech & Public Sector Innovation. This fully-funded initiative focuses on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in governance and public administration, offering a technical bootcamp in Seoul for selected teams. Applications are open until October 2, 2026.
Application Closing Date: October 2, 2026
Location: Seoul, South Korea (for the bootcamp)
Programme Duration: Five-day technical bootcamp
Stipend: Fully funded (covers bootcamp participation)
Minimum Qualification: Not specified (focus on government institutions with AI initiatives)
Opportunity Type: Global Program / Bootcamp
About the World Bank Group Global Program on GovTech & Public Sector Innovation
This program aims to help government institutions strengthen public administration and service delivery through AI. It focuses on how AI can improve transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement. The initiative is a collaboration between the World Bank, the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of the Interior and Safety (MOIS), and the National Information Society Agency (NIA).
Participants will gain insights from experts who manage Korea’s public AI systems. They will also work with Korean and World Bank specialists to develop practical roadmaps for their own AI projects. The program is designed for institutions that are currently developing, piloting, or deploying AI-enabled solutions.
Following the bootcamp, selected teams may receive ongoing support and technical feedback. This follow-up assistance will depend on the strength of their proposals and the advice given during the program. The goal is to help these initiatives advance and make a real impact.
About the World Bank Group
The World Bank Group is a global development institution. It provides loans, grants, and technical assistance to developing countries. Its mission is to reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity. The organization works in areas like education, health, infrastructure, and economic development.
The World Bank Group is made up of five institutions. These institutions work together to provide financing, advice, and other services to developing countries. They aim to create a world free of poverty.
Available Program Opportunities
This program specifically targets government institutions working on AI in the public sector. While there are no specific “fields” or “trades” listed in the traditional sense, the focus is on AI applications within governance and public administration.
The program invites proposals that address challenges in areas such as:
- Improving public service delivery
- Enhancing government transparency
- Increasing administrative efficiency
- Boosting citizen engagement through technology
What the Program Offers
Successful government teams will benefit from a fully funded, five-day technical bootcamp. This bootcamp will be held in Seoul, South Korea.
Key benefits include:
- Direct learning from practitioners of Korea’s public AI systems.
- Engagement with Korean and World Bank experts.
- Development of practical implementation roadmaps for AI initiatives.
- Potential for follow-up support and technical feedback.
- Networking opportunities with global peers.
Programme Duration and Location
The core of the program is a five-day technical bootcamp. This intensive session will take place in Seoul, South Korea. The exact dates for the bootcamp will be communicated to selected participants.
The program is open to government institutions from low- and middle-income countries. The World Bank classifies these countries based on their income groups. Upper-middle-income countries are also eligible to apply.
Minimum Requirements
The program is open to government institutions from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The applying institution must be actively developing, piloting, or deploying an AI tool or application for the public sector. This initiative should aim to solve a specific governance or administrative challenge.
Key requirements include:
- The applying institution must be a government agency.
- The proposal must be submitted on behalf of a government agency with direct authority over the initiative.
- Proposals can be at the concept, prototype, pilot, or deployment stage.
- Concrete institutional backing and a specific, actionable plan are prioritized.
- Only one team per country will be selected for the bootcamp.
Competencies Required
While specific competencies for individuals are not detailed, the program seeks government institutions with a clear vision for using AI.
The ideal applicant institution will demonstrate:
- A clear understanding of a public sector challenge.
- A well-defined proposed AI solution.
- Readiness in terms of technical infrastructure and data availability.
- Strong institutional support for the initiative.
- Awareness of potential implementation risks.
- Clear learning objectives for the bootcamp.
- A planned approach for next steps after the program.
Who Should Apply?
This program is designed for government institutions that are committed to leveraging AI to improve public administration and governance. It is suitable for agencies that have already begun exploring AI solutions or are planning to do so. The initiative is particularly beneficial for those seeking expert guidance and a structured approach to implementing AI in their operations.
It is ideal for institutions looking to enhance their service delivery, increase efficiency, and foster greater transparency. The program encourages applications from countries aiming to modernize their public sectors through innovative technological solutions.
Required Documents
Applicants will need to describe their public sector challenge, proposed AI solution, and technical readiness. They should also detail their institutional support and implementation risks. Learning objectives and planned next steps are also required.
Applicants may submit supporting materials, which can include:
- Endorsement letters from relevant authorities.
- Technical diagrams of proposed systems.
- Relevant policy documents.
- Evidence of budget commitments.
- Any other documents that support the proposal.
How to Apply
Interested government institutions can apply through the provided online link. Before applying, ensure you have all the necessary information and supporting documents ready.
Applicants should carefully review the program details and requirements. Prepare a detailed description of your initiative and its potential impact. Ensure all information provided is accurate and well-supported. Submit your application before the closing date of October 2, 2026.
Important Notes
Only government institutions that meet the eligibility criteria should apply. The selection process will prioritize proposals that demonstrate strong institutional backing and a clear, actionable plan. Only one team per country will be selected for the bootcamp.
Applicants are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible in their application. Supporting documents can significantly strengthen a proposal. Ensure all information is submitted accurately and on time.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications for the World Bank Group Global Program on GovTech & Public Sector Innovation 2026 is October 2, 2026.
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