AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025 -Apply Now

Application Deadline: September 15, 2025

The AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025 is now accepting applications from young innovators worldwide. Hosted by the UNU Global AI Network, this prestigious international competition harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive sustainable development and foster impactful youth-led innovation.

With the overarching goal of empowering social innovation, nurturing young talent, and addressing critical global challenges, this annual competition serves as a platform for bold, tech-driven solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

2025 Theme: AI for the Environment & Green Transition

Each edition of the competition features a central theme. For 2025, the spotlight is on “AI for the Environment: Ecological Environment and Green Transition Challenges” — emphasizing the role of AI in combating climate change, protecting ecosystems, and advancing clean energy solutions.

The competition is organized around four specialized tracks:

1. Climate Change Adaptation

Harnessing AI to predict and mitigate the impacts of climate change, while enhancing societal and ecological resilience.

2. Environmental Protection & Conservation

Utilizing AI technologies to monitor natural resources, improve conservation efforts, and strengthen environmental protection measures.

3. Clean Energy

Innovating with AI to increase efficiency in renewable energy production and accelerate the global shift to low-carbon energy systems.

4. AI for Less Developed Countries

Designing accessible, affordable AI-based technologies to support green transitions and climate adaptation in less developed nations.

Benefits for Participants

Participants stand to gain not just global recognition but also strategic support that transforms ideas into real-world impact. Benefits include:

• USD 1,000 prize per winning team (before tax)
• Industry and investor matchmaking
• Technology pilot opportunities in China (Nov 2025 – Oct 2026)
• International promotion and visibility
• Macau Prize for outstanding submissions from Macau to highlight regional innovation

Winning teams will receive a full growth support package, including financial backing, promotional exposure, and pathways for commercialization and real-world application of their solutions.

Who Can Apply?

This global opportunity is open to:

• Individuals, startups, organizations, and academic groups from any country
• Projects with a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) above 6 — i.e., innovations that are lab-tested, proven in real-world conditions, and nearly market-ready
• Enterprises less than 10 years old
• English-speaking participants, as all submissions and evaluations will be conducted in English

Importantly, there are no participation, training, or registration fees.

Competition Timeline

Launch Date
July 27, 2025 — Officially launched at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference, Shanghai

Initial Round
August 15 – September 15, 2025 (Online)

Semi-Final Round
September 15 – September 30, 2025 (Online)

Final Round & Award Ceremony
October 23–25, 2025, in Macau

The pilot implementation period for winning solutions in China runs from November 2025 to October 2026.

Why You Should Apply

This competition is more than a contest — it’s a launchpad for AI-powered change. It’s a unique opportunity for young visionaries to not only showcase their innovations but also receive real support to scale and implement their solutions on a global stage.

Whether you’re building AI tools to protect the environment, drive clean energy adoption, or aid underdeveloped regions in climate adaptation — this is your chance to make a tangible difference.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE