Competition
AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2026
United Nations University (UNU Macau)
Summary
A UN University innovation competition for AI solutions advancing quality education, with a Global Final in Macau.
About
The AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition is an international science and technology innovation competition initiated by the UNU Global AI Network. It leverages artificial intelligence to address sustainable development challenges while empowering social innovation and global youth development. The 2026 theme is "AI and Education: AI Transforming the Educational Paradigm and Enhancing AI Literacy". Three competition tracks: 1. AI for Education — intelligent tutoring, adaptive learning, automated assessment, inclusive education technology. 2. AI for Social Innovation — bridging the digital divide, lifelong learning, digital citizenship, data-driven policy tools. 3. AI for Less Developed Countries (LDCs) — low-cost offline-capable learning tools, mobile-first education, AI literacy capacity building, local-language preservation. Timeline: open applications until 15 September 2026; judging 16–30 September; semi-finals 1–15 October (online); Global Final and Award Ceremony in Macau on 26 November 2026.
Eligibility
Registration is open to any company, group or individual worldwide, regardless of nationality or background. Projects must be at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 or above — beyond the laboratory stage and validated in real-world scenarios. Incorporated companies must have been established for less than 10 years. All applications and assessments are in English. No registration, training or participation fees.
Benefits
Complimentary hotel accommodation for finalists during the Global Final in Macau (November 2026). Travel allowances of up to USD 1,000 per finalist team (limited number available). Recognition from the United Nations University and the UNU Global AI Network. Exposure to international policy makers, researchers and investors.
