China fosters innovative AI research through competition

The Chinese government has been unequivocal in its goal to become the global AI leader. Three of the largest tech companies in China -- Sougou, China's second-biggest search giant, Sinovation Ventures, and internet firm Bytedance -- have joined forces to bring that plan to fruition. The companies pooled funds and data to create the AI Challenger contest. The contest features a prize pool of 2 million yuan, or approximately $300,000. Entrants will presumably be judged on innovation in the field of AI research.