WISESTONE T to Advance K-Lab Project in Uzbekistan as a Key Hub for Digital Innovation

Now in its fourth year, the “2026 K-Lab Uzbekistan Cooperation Support Program,” led by NIPA, is entering a new phase focused on establishing a self-sustaining operational framework and expanding its outcomes.

This program is being jointly carried out by a consortium consisting of WISESTONE T, the Korea Industrial Intelligence Association (KOIIA), and the UNIDO ITPO Korea.

On April 9, a delegation from WISESTONE T, led by CEO In-seok Kim, together with representatives from NIPA, the Korea Industrial Intelligence Association (KOIIA), and UNIDO ITPO Korea, visited relevant institutions and educational organizations in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, to carry out strategic cooperation activities aimed at stabilizing local operations of the K-Lab Phase 4 project and laying the groundwork for its expansion.

During the visit, the delegation held discussions with relevant stakeholders and worked together to outline implementation plans for Years 4 and 5, further refining the mid- to long-term cooperation roadmap.

In particular, a meeting with the U-ENTER Innovation Center explored ways to support startups and connect them with technology commercialization, laying the groundwork for expanding a practical startup ecosystem linked to the K-Lab program.

In addition, the delegation conducted a comprehensive review of the K-Lab facilities and operations, completing the handover of key functions including equipment operation, safety management, and training-related processes, and further strengthening the basis for a locally led operating system.

In the fourth year, building on the stable operation of K-Lab, the project will focus on AI and software convergence education, digital manufacturing training, startup mentoring programs, and a Train-the-Trainer (ToT) program for local master instructors, while also aiming to internalize a locally led sustainable operating model and establish a Uzbekistan-style startup ecosystem.

WISESTONE T is strengthening its partnerships with key organizations in Uzbekistan, including U-ENTER, IT Park, and the Chamber of Commerce, as well as universities such as Inha University in Tashkent and TOBB ETU. By expanding collaboration between industry and education sectors, K-Lab in Uzbekistan is expected to move beyond a simple training center and establish itself as a regional hub for digital innovation and entrepreneurship.