Overview

This award recognizes high-impact Artificial Intelligence research collaborations led by the National University that demonstrate effective partnerships between academia and industry or government, resulting in real-world application, innovation, and measurable societal or economic impact.

Eligibility

• Open to NU staff–led projects only

• Must involve at least one industry or government partner

• Collaborations may be national or international

• AI must be a core technical component, not an incidental or supporting tool

• The collaboration must also demonstrate active engagement beyond consultancy / research funding 

Award

• One award per cycle

Evaluation Focus

• Strength and sustainability of the academia–industry partnership

• Evidence of AI-driven innovation and technical contribution

• Practical deployment, pilot implementation, or field validation

• Measurable impact on industry, society, economy, or policy

Required Documents

• Project summary (objectives, partners, duration)

• Proof of collaboration (MoU, agreement, endorsement letter, or official communication)

• Description of AI methodology and innovation

• Evidence of impact (prototype, deployment details, pilot results, reports, or publications)

• Applicants must upload a single comprehensive PDF report covering all the above details and a brief rationale/justification explaining why the application should be considered for the award through the designated Google Form under the APPLY menu.  

Note: 

• The final eligibility decision is subject to review by the AI Makers Evaluation Committee.

• The final incentive decision is subject to approval by the AI Makers Steering Committee.