UN Tourism launched the Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge which will support projects that are leveraging digital technologies to improve tourism, promote sustainability and boost economic growth.
With this, UN Tourism encourages participants to address digital transformation, sustainability, inclusivity and digital governance in all key areas, including branding and marketing; smart destinations and deep technologies; adaptable educational solutions; and operational efficiency.
Through these categories, the initiative aims to foster innovation that increases the attractiveness of destinations, optimizes resource management and creates smart and impactful tourist experiences.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said:
“Innovation is a key driver of the future of tourism. This Challenge provides a unique opportunity for creative minds to contribute to the sustainable and inclusive growth of the tourism sector. We look forward to the innovative solutions that will emerge from this global initiative.”
UN Tourism Executive Director Natalia Bayona added:
“AI is projected to contribute between US$15,700 and US$19,900 trillion to the global economy, with generative AI alone contributing between US$2.6 and US$4.4 trillion annually. This is transformative power — AI is the future of tourism. The future of tourism is here, and it is smart, efficient and sustainable.”
The Challenge is supported by major partners including SPARK, the Les Roches Innovation Centre 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 process and application submission
The Challenge is open to individuals, teams and companies from around the world.
Applicants must submit a detailed proposal explaining their innovative solution, its potential impact on the tourism sector, and an implementation plan.
Proposals will be evaluated based on creativity, feasibility and adaptability.
Candidates may submit their applications until March 31, 2025.
Finalists will have the opportunity to present their projects at UN Tourism Demo Day: UN Tourism's Technological Adventures, at the end of 2025.
The winners will receive support to develop and execute their projects, receiving guidance from industry experts and digital innovation leaders through a two-month incubation in the SPARK innovation space. They will also have opportunities to showcase their projects at international tourism events and conferences, increasing their global visibility and gaining access to an extensive network of tourism professionals and potential investors.
Participants interested in the Challenge can learn more, explore additional benefits, and apply through the Official website of the Challenge.
