UN Tourism is reaching out to dynamic start-ups and scale-ups that are reshaping the travel industry with cutting-edge digital technologies. Through its Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge, the UN seeks to discover and support forward-thinking projects that leverage AI and other innovations to enhance tourism, promote sustainability, and drive economic progress.
The challenge encourages participants to develop solutions across several critical areas, including digital branding and marketing, smart destinations, AI-driven technologies, scalable education solutions, and operational efficiency. These categories are designed to foster digital transformation, sustainability, and inclusivity, all while improving the management of resources and creating intelligent, impactful tourism experiences.
By spotlighting these emerging technologies, UN Tourism aims to elevate the appeal of destinations worldwide, help businesses optimize operations, and contribute to a more sustainable, accessible future for the global tourism sector.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili says: “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 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 transformative power—AI is the future of tourism. The future of tourism is here, and it is intelligent, efficient, and sustainable”.
UN Tourism is proud to announce the launch of its latest global initiative, aimed at empowering innovators to reshape the future of tourism. The challenge is supported by prominent partners, including SPARK, the Innovation Hub of Les Roches under Sommet Education, Unicoin, the official cryptocurrency of Unicorn Hunters, and Amadeus with its Venture Capital for tech companies. These collaborations provide a strong foundation to nurture and accelerate digital innovations in tourism.
Eligibility and Application Process
The challenge is open to individuals, teams, and companies from around the world. To participate, applicants must submit a comprehensive proposal detailing their innovative solution, its potential to impact the tourism sector, and a clear implementation strategy. Proposals will be evaluated on their creativity, feasibility, and scalability. The application deadline is March 31, 2025. Finalists will have the opportunity to present their ideas at the UN Tourism Demo Day: UN Tourism Tech Adventures at the end of 2025.
Prize and Benefits
Winners of the challenge will receive robust support to further develop and implement their projects. They will benefit from a two-month incubation at SPARK’s cutting-edge innovation sphere, where they will receive mentorship and guidance from industry experts and leaders in digital innovation. Additionally, winners will have the chance to showcase their projects at prestigious international tourism events and conferences, boosting their global visibility. Participants will also gain access to a wide network of tourism professionals, investors, and potential collaborators, providing valuable opportunities to scale their ideas.
How to Apply
Interested participants can explore more details, discover the full range of benefits, and submit their applications through the official Challenge website.
UN Tourism and its Commitment to Innovation
Since its inception in 2018, UN Tourism has been at the forefront of fostering innovation in the tourism sector, launching 32 startup innovation challenges that span over 150 countries. With over 20,000 participants and nearly 400 top startups mapped, UN Tourism has helped secure over $2 billion in funding. Through these initiatives, UN Tourism continues its commitment to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), leveraging tourism as a powerful tool for inclusive economic development and positive social transformation.
This new challenge reinforces UN Tourism’s dedication to driving digital transformation and supporting the next generation of tourism pioneers who will shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative future for global travel.
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