UN Tourism launches Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge

UN Tourism is looking for start-ups and scale-ups that revolutionize the tourism sector through top solutions

Author  HrTurizam.hr

November 29, 2024

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, inclusiveness and digital governance in key areas including branding and marketing, smart destinations and deep technologies, scalable education solutions and business efficiency.

Through these categories, the initiative aims to encourage innovations that increase the attractiveness of destinations, optimize resource management and create intelligent, impactful tourism experiences.

"Innovations are the 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", said the Secretary General of UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili.

"AI is projected to add $15,7 to $19,9 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with generative AI alone adding $2,6 to $4,4 trillion annually. This is the power of transformation - AI is the future of tourism. The future of tourism is here, and it is intelligent, efficient and sustainable", added the executive director of UN Tourism, Natalia Bayona.

Eligibility and application process

The challenge is open to individuals, teams and companies from all over the world. Applicants must submit a detailed proposal describing their innovative solution, its potential impact on the tourism sector and an implementation plan.

Proposals will be judged on creativity, feasibility and scalability. Candidates can apply until March 31, 2025.

The finalists will have the opportunity to present their projects at the UN Tourism Demo Day: UN Tourism Tech Adventures, until the end of 2025.

 

Winners will receive support for the development and implementation of their projects, receiving guidance from industry experts and leaders in digital innovation through a two-month incubation in the SPARK Innovation Sphere.

In addition, they will have the opportunity to present their projects at international tourism events and conferences, thereby improving their global visibility and gaining access to a wide network of tourism experts and potential investors.

Participants interested in the challenge can find more information, explore additional benefits and submit their applications via the official challenge website.

UN Tourism and Innovation

Since 2018, UN Tourism has launched 32 startup innovation challenges and competitions, covering more than 150 countries worldwide.

With more than 20.000 participants and nearly 400 top startups mapped with more than $2 billion in funding, the organization continues its efforts to support digitization and innovation to advance the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Tourism is a tool for positive transformation and inclusive economic development.

Source and photo: UN Tourism

Author  HrTurizam.hr

November 29, 2024