Shanghai, China | July 27, 2025 — The United Nations University (UNU) Global AI Network today officially launched the AI for SDGs — Global Youth AI Future Innovation Competition 2025 at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai.
“The inaugural competition, focusing on AI for the Environment, will challenge young innovators worldwide to develop meaningful solutions,” said Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of UNU and United Nations Under-Secretary-General. “It is an important opportunity for youth to demonstrate their capacity to shape a sustainable future, and I encourage all to participate.”
Under the theme “AI for the Environment: Ecological Sustainability and the Green Transition,” this global initiative invites youth to harness the transformative power of AI to drive progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The competition calls for AI-driven proposals across four critical areas:
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Environmental Protection and Conservation
- Clean Energy
- AI for Less Developed Countries
Winner teams will receive global visibility, strategic and funding support, and be featured across UNU platforms and affiliated events. A special Macau Prize will recognize exceptional entries from Macao, reinforcing the region’s role in fostering social innovation and youth engagement in sustainable development.
Applications are now open. The competition will unfold in three phases: the Initial Round (August 15–September 15, 2025, online), the Semi-Final Round (September 15–September 30, 2025, online), and the Final Round and Award Ceremony, held in person from October 23–25, 2025 in Macau SAR, China.
The competition is open to individuals, teams, organizations, and companies worldwide. Entries must demonstrate a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7–9, showing real-world applicability beyond laboratory testing. Enterprises must be under 10 years old, and all submissions must be in English. Participation is free of charge, including registration and training.
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.
More details and entry submission: unu.edu/macau/youthaicompetition
Contact us for more information: ai4sdgs@venturecup.cn ainetwork@unu.edu
