- Youth innovators from around the world converge in Macau to present AI solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Finalists address urgent global challenges—climate resilience, clean energy, and digital equity—with scalable technologies tailored for less developed countries.
- A special Macau Prize celebrates regional excellence and positions the city as a launchpad for youth-driven global impact.
- Powered by the UNU Global AI Network, launched at the 2024 UNU Macau AI Conference to connect research and cooperation across borders.
Macau SAR, China, October 14, 2025 — On October 23, youth teams from across continents will convene at The Londoner Macao in Macau for the finals of the AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025. As part of the UNU Macau Milestone Series commemorating the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 50th anniversary of the United Nations University, the competition places youth-led AI innovation at the heart of global sustainability efforts.
The 2025 theme, “AI for the Environment: Ecological Environment and Green Transition Challenges,” invites solutions across four tracks: Climate Change Adaptation, Environmental Protection and Conservation, Clean Energy, and AI for Less Developed Countries. These tracks reflect the competition’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 13 (Climate Action), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Finalists are challenged to move beyond prototypes and deliver scalable, context-aware technologies that serve communities most vulnerable to climate and digital divides.
“This competition challenges young innovators to move from concept to impact,” said Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University and UN Under-Secretary-General. “It’s a platform for youth to lead the digital transformation toward a sustainable future.”
The event is powered by the UNU Global AI Network—a multilateral initiative launched at the 2024 UNU Macau AI Conference to support AI for sustainable development. The Network connects researchers, practitioners, and institutions across borders, with a strong focus on the Global South and inclusive innovation.
Winning teams will receive a growth-support package including financial backing, investor and industry matchmaking, and international promotion. Select projects will be invited to pilot their solutions in China and other regions of the Global South.
As a UN entity in Macau and the Greater Bay Area, UNU Macau plays a strategic role in linking regional talent with global partners. A special Macau Prize will recognize outstanding entries from the region, reinforcing the city’s role in advancing youth-led innovation with international relevance.
The competition is guided by the United Nations University and organized by the UNU Global AI Network, with UNU Macau and Venture Cup China as co-organizers. Academic support is provided by the Institute for AI International Governance at Tsinghua University.
The AI for SDGs- Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025 is hosted with Sands China Ltd. as the venue sponsor.
Learn more about the competition: https://unu.edu/macau/youthaicompetition
Learn more about UNU Macau: https://unu.edu/macau
Learn more about the UNU Global AI Network: https://unu.edu/unu-global-ai-network
For further inquiries, please contact us at aiconference@unu.edu or unuai25.reg@gmail.com.
