Deadline: March 15, 2026
Applications are open for the ITU AI for Good Impact Awards 2026. Following the success of its first edition, the AI for Good Impact Awards return in 2026 to celebrate exceptional achievements in the field of AI. Organized by the International Telecommunication Union, the Impact Awards highlight how AI can be applied responsibly and effectively to solve real-world challenges, from improving human well-being to supporting sustainability and economic resilience.
By spotlighting transformative AI applications, the Impact Awards offer global recognition for impactful solutions that contribute to a better future for all. Winners will be honored at the AI for Good Impact Awards Ceremony, held during the 2026 AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva.
Categories
The AI for Good Impact Awards feature three categories, honoring innovation and impact across various sectors.
AI for People: Empowering individuals and communities through human-centered innovation – AI solutions that improve human well-being, enhance inclusion, and expand digital participation. From healthcare and education to accessibility and equality, these projects show how AI can create meaningful, measurable benefits for people and communities. Examples of focus areas:
- Health and well-being (AI for diagnosis, accessibility, assistive technologies)
- Education and lifelong learning (personalized learning, language inclusion, teacher support)
- Digital inclusion and equality (gender, disability, vulnerable populations, connectivity access)
- Poverty reduction and food security (agricultural optimization, resource access)
AI for Planet: Harnessing AI to protect the environment and advance sustainability – AI solutions that safeguard natural ecosystems, promote climate resilience, and support responsible resource use. From environmental monitoring and renewable energy optimization to biodiversity protection, these projects contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet for future generations. Examples of focus areas:
- Climate change mitigation and adaptation
- Biodiversity conservation and ecosystem protection
- Water management, circular economy, and pollution reduction
AI for Prosperity: Building resilient and innovative economies through AI – AI initiatives that strengthen economies, foster sustainable growth, modernize industries, and enhance governance systems. From smart cities and industrial innovation to data-driven policy and infrastructure planning, these projects demonstrate how AI can power long-term prosperity, economic progress and institutional resilience. Examples of focus areas:
- Sustainable cities and infrastructure
- Economic growth
- Industry and infrastructure innovation (smart manufacturing, logistics, energy efficiency)
- Governance, justice, and peacebuilding through data-driven insight
Prizes
- Invitation to the AI for Good Global Summit 2026
- Recognition and exposure
- AI for Good Impact Award trophy
Eligibility
Applications are open to:
- Small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
- Large corporations
- Non-profit organizations
- Academic and research institutions
- Government bodies
- Individual contributors
Judging Criteria
- Innovation: The solution introduces unique or innovative AI applications, technologies, or approaches to address key challenges.
- Impact: The solution delivers measurable societal, environmental, or economic benefits, demonstrates clear positive outcomes, and shows strong potential for scaling.
- Contribution to global challenges: The solution clearly aligns with the selected category and contributes to its objectives.
- Sustainability: The solution demonstrates responsible and efficient use of resources throughout its conception, development, and deployment, ensuring long-term viability and positive systemic impact.
- Ethical considerations: The solution adheres to ethical AI principles, including transparency, respect for privacy, and accountability in its design and deployment.
Application
For more information, visit AI for Good Impact Awards.
