Deadline: March 15, 2026
The ITU AI for Good Impact Awards 2026 are now open for applications! The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) invites innovators, organisations, and institutions around the world to submit transformative AI solutions that are driving positive change for people, the planet, and prosperity.
This prestigious award recognises and celebrates AI solutions that demonstrate meaningful impact on social, environmental, and economic development, contributing directly to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Application Deadline
March 15, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to ensure their submissions meet all eligibility requirements and align with ITU’s guidelines for ethical and impactful AI solutions.
About the ITU AI for Good Impact Awards 2026
The ITU AI for Good Impact Awards 2026 are part of the broader AI for Good initiative — a United Nations-backed programme led by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The initiative connects global changemakers, innovators, policymakers, and technologists working together to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI) is harnessed for sustainable and inclusive growth.
Through these awards, ITU seeks to recognise outstanding AI solutions that are responsibly applied to create tangible, positive outcomes for people, communities, and the planet.
Award Categories
Applicants may submit their entries under one of the following three categories:
1. AI for People
This category recognises AI solutions that enhance human well-being, inclusion, and access to digital opportunities. Eligible projects may include innovations in healthcare, education, accessibility, poverty reduction, and humanitarian response.
2. AI for Planet
This category focuses on AI projects that promote environmental protection and sustainability. Eligible initiatives could address areas such as climate adaptation, clean energy, pollution reduction, biodiversity preservation, and waste management.
3. AI for Prosperity
This category celebrates AI-driven solutions that foster resilient, data-driven, and innovative economies. Projects in this category may include those enhancing smart infrastructure, sustainable cities, modernised industries, and digital governance.
Who Can Apply
The ITU AI for Good Impact Awards 2026 are open to a wide range of participants, including:
- Individuals aged 18 and above
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
- Large corporations
- Non-profit organisations and NGOs
- Academic and research institutions
- Governmental bodies
Please note that start-ups and early-stage companies are not eligible for the Impact Awards. However, such entities are encouraged to participate in the AI for Good Innovation Factory, which is specifically designed for start-ups developing AI-based solutions.
Benefits of the ITU AI for Good Impact Awards 2026
Winners of the ITU AI for Good Impact Awards 2026 will receive several exclusive benefits, including:
- An invitation to the AI for Good Global Summit 2026, which will take place in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Official recognition and global visibility through ITU’s international networks and communication platforms.
- An AI for Good Impact Award trophy in honour of their contribution to advancing responsible and impactful AI innovation.
Winning projects will be showcased globally, providing unparalleled exposure and opportunities for collaboration, scaling, and partnership within the AI for Good ecosystem.
About the AI for Good Initiative
The AI for Good initiative, organised by ITU in partnership with 40 UN agencies and other global stakeholders, serves as a leading platform for identifying practical AI applications that can accelerate progress toward the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Through a series of summits, challenges, and networking opportunities, AI for Good brings together leaders from technology, policy, academia, and industry to ensure AI technologies are developed and deployed ethically and inclusively.
How to Apply
Applicants are invited to submit their entries by the deadline of March 15, 2026. All applications must demonstrate measurable impact, scalability, and alignment with one or more of the AI for Good categories — People, Planet, or Prosperity.
👉 Read more about the programme
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