TLDR: The United Nations University (UNU) Global AI Network has officially launched the “AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025” at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. This global initiative challenges young innovators to develop AI-driven solutions for environmental sustainability and the green transition, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The competition, which is free to enter, will unfold in three phases from August to October 2025, culminating in an in-person final round and award ceremony in Macau.
The United Nations University (UNU) Global AI Network officially launched the “AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025” on July 27, 2025, during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. This inaugural competition aims to empower young innovators worldwide to leverage artificial intelligence for addressing critical environmental challenges and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Under the overarching theme “AI for the Environment: Ecological Sustainability and the Green Transition,” the competition invites proposals across four key areas: Climate Change Adaptation, Environmental Protection and Conservation, Clean Energy, and AI for Less Developed Countries. Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of UNU and United Nations Under-Secretary-General, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “It is an important opportunity for youth to demonstrate their capacity to shape a sustainable future, and I encourage all to participate.”
The competition is structured in three distinct phases. The Initial Round will take place online from August 15 to September 15, 2025, followed by the Semi-Final Round, also online, from September 15 to September 30, 2025. The Final Round and Award Ceremony are scheduled to be held in person from October 23 to 25, 2025, in Macau SAR, China.
Participation is open to individuals, teams, organizations, and companies globally. Submissions must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7-9, indicating real-world applicability beyond laboratory testing. Enterprises entering the competition must be under 10 years old, and all submissions are required to be in English. There are no registration or training fees associated with participation.
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Winning teams will receive global visibility, strategic and funding support, and will be featured across UNU platforms and affiliated events. A special “Macau Prize” will also be awarded to recognize outstanding entries from Macao, highlighting the region’s commitment to fostering social innovation and youth engagement in sustainable development. The initiative is guided by the United Nations University, organized by the UNU Global AI Network, and co-organized by UNU Macau and Venture Cup China, with academic support from the Institute for AI International Governance of Tsinghua University.
