UNU Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025 – AI for the Environment | Deadline: 15 Sep 2025
The United Nations University (UNU) Global AI Network has officially launched the AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025, a global initiative empowering young innovators to tackle environmental challenges using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The competition is co-organized by UNU Macau and Venture Cup China, with support from the Institute for AI International Governance (Tsinghua University). It was unveiled at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai.
Theme & Tracks
The 2025 competition is themed: “AI for the Environment: Ecological Sustainability and the Green Transition.”
Participants can compete in four key tracks:
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Climate Change Adaptation
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Environmental Protection & Conservation
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Clean Energy
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AI for Less Developed Countries
Why It Matters
This initiative seeks to mobilize youth-driven innovation in AI to address the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The focus is on solutions that are near commercialization (TRL 7–9) and can create tangible impact worldwide.
Timeline & Process
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Initial Round (Online): 15 Aug – 15 Sept 2025
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Semi-Final (Online): 15 – 30 Sept 2025
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Final & Award Ceremony (In Person, Macau): 23 – 25 Oct 2025
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Special Macau Prize: Honoring outstanding projects by Macau youth
Who Can Apply?
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Open to individuals, teams, startups, or organizations worldwide (no nationality restrictions)
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Projects must be at TRL 7–9 (validated in real-world settings, close to commercialization)
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Enterprises must be less than 10 years old
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English required for all submissions and evaluations
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Free application – no participation fees
Awards & Benefits
Winners will receive:
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USD 1,000 (pre-tax) financial award per category
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Industry mentorship & investor matchmaking (virtual + in-person)
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Pilot opportunities in China (Nov 2025 – Oct 2026)
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Global visibility via UNU platforms & events
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Special Macau Prize for local youth innovators
The UNU Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025 is a rare chance to gain funding, mentorship, and global recognition while making a real contribution to sustainability and green transition.
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