The Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge will support projects that leverage digital technologies to improve tourism, promote sustainability and drive economic growth. Participants are encouraged to address digital transformation, sustainability, inclusion and digital governance in key areas such as branding and marketing; smart destinations and advanced technologies; scalable educational solutions; and operational efficiency. Through these categories, the initiative seeks to foster innovation that elevates the attractiveness of destinations, optimizes resource management and creates smart and impactful tourism experiences.
UN Secretary-General for Tourism Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Innovation is a key driver of the future of tourism. This Challenge is a unique opportunity for creative minds to contribute to the sustainable and inclusive growth of the tourism sector. We are excited to see the innovative solutions that will emerge from this global initiative.”
UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona adds: “AI is estimated to add between $15.7-19.9 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with generative AI alone adding between $2.6-4.4 trillion annually. This is transformative power – AI is the future of tourism. The future of tourism is already here – and it is smart, efficient and sustainable.”
The challenge is supported by major partners including SPARK, the Innovation Hub of Les Roches of the Sommet Education group, as well as Unicoin, the official cryptocurrency of Unicorn Hunters and Amadeus and its Venture Capital for technology companies.
Eligibility and Application Process
The Challenge is open to individuals, teams and companies from around the world. Applicants must submit a detailed proposal outlining their innovative solution, its potential impact on the tourism sector and an implementation plan. Proposals will be evaluated on creativity, feasibility and scalability. Applicants can apply until 31 March 2025. Finalists will have the opportunity to present their proposals at the UN Tourism Demo Day – the UN Tourism Tech Adventures, in late 2025.
The winners will receive support to develop and implement their projects, receiving guidance from industry experts and digital innovation leaders through a two-month incubation in the SPARK innovation sphere. In addition, they will have the opportunity to showcase their projects at international tourism events and conferences, enhancing their global visibility and gaining access to a wide network of tourism professionals and potential investors.
Interested Challenge participants can find more information, explore additional benefits, and submit their applications through the Challenge’s official website.
UN Tourism and Innovation
Since 2018, UN Tourism has launched 32 innovation challenges and competitions for startups, spanning over 150 countries around the world. With over 20,000 participants and nearly 400 leading startups identified with over USD 2 billion in funding, UN Tourism continues its efforts to support digitalization and innovation to advance the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Tourism is a tool for positive transformation and inclusive economic development.
Source: UN Tourism.