AI for Good

What if AI is the last thing that humans ever invent?
Alexandra Bustos Iliescu21 February 2026
Governing advanced AI in practice
Ariana Acosta10 September 2025
Final cut, the AI for Good Film Festival 2025 crowns this year’s winning film
Ariana Acosta21 July 2025
And that’s a wrap! The AI for Good Film Festival 2025 came to a close on 9 July during the Global Summit in Geneva, where four finalists presented their short films to a live audience and a panel of expert judges. Each film tackled different aspects of how artificial intelligence is shaping the world, from the challenges it raises to the possibilities it opens up.
Discover the top three moments of the AI for Good Summit 2025
Ariana Acosta18 July 2025
This year’s Youth Zone at the AI for Good Global Summit transformed Palexpo into a learning ground where creativity, curiosity, and code came together. Across two packed days, students, educators, and young innovators engaged in hands-on workshops exploring how AI and robotics can be used to solve real world challenges, from landmine detection to lunar health missions. With 16 workshops running in both English and French, the Youth Zone offered something for everyone, whether they were just starting out or already dabbling in Python. Children as young as five, along with teens and adults, took part in sessions designed to make AI concepts accessible and engaging, without requiring prior experience.
MamaMate wins again, this time at the AI for Good Innovation Factory Grand Finale 2025
Ariana Acosta14 July 2025
After earning the main spot at the Women’s Innovation Factory Pitching Competition, Ele-vate AI Africa returned to AI for Good’s main stage and came out as the winner once again. At the Innovation Factory Grand Finale 2025, Elevate’s solution, MamaMate, was named a global winner, earning recognition from a distinguished panel of experts for its innovative, community-centered approach to maternal health in underserved regions. 
Meet the winners for the 2025 AI for Good Impact Awards
Ariana Acosta9 July 2025
The AI for Good Impact Awards celebrate AI solutions that drive meaningful change by highlighting projects and partnerships that use AI to address current global challenges, emphasizing long term impact, ethical responsibility, and sustainability. Organized by the International Telecommunication Union, in partnership with Tech To The Rescue - a global nonprofit connecting social impact organizations with technology partners to enable AI for Good solutions, this year’s awards focused on three main categories: AI for People, AI for Planet, and AI for Prosperity, along with a special Pro Bono Collaboration Award, co-developed with Tech To The Rescue, celebrated purpose-driven partnerships between tech companies and changemakers working together for the public good. These categories reflect the diverse ways AI is being used to improve lives, protect the environment, and fostering inclusive development.
The women’s Innovation Factory winner of 2025: MamaMate
Ariana Acosta8 July 2025
Taking home the top prize at the Women’s Innovation Factory Pitching Competition 2025 is Ele-vate AI Africa, a startup committed to supporting mothers in their journey. When Yvonne Baldwin, co-founder and CEO of Ele-vate Africa, became a new mother, she experienced at first hand what many women across Africa know too well: the early days of motherhood can feel overwhelming, lonely, and unsupported, especially in places where information, mental health resources, and reliable care are hard to come by. That experience inspired MamaMate, a simple, pocket-sized smart device built for first-time mothers in rural and underserved communities. Powered by AI, MamaMate helps new mums track baby care activities like feeding and sleep, provides culturally relevant nutrition tips, checks in on their emotional wellbeing, and even enables anonymous encouragement from peer mums. And crucially, it works offline, through solar or USB charging, designed with low-literacy and low-connectivity settings in mind. 
MamaMate and the startup powering postnatal support
Ariana Acosta3 July 2025
MamaMate is a small, AI-powered gadget designed specifically for first-time mothers in rural and underserved areas. In regions where internet access is unreliable and digital literacy is low, MamaMate works offline, runs on solar or USB power, and speaks directly to mothers in their own languages. It helps track baby care routines, offers culturally relevant health advice, checks in on mental well-being through voice prompts, and even provides anonymous emotional support from other mothers. 
Cerebrocure pioneers stroke innovation at the women’s Innovation Factory
Ariana Acosta3 July 2025
One of this year’s standout finalists is Cerebrocure Technologies, a health-tech startup based in Pakistan that is reimagining stroke care in regions with limited resources. Led by Saira Osama, founder and CEO, Cerebrocure is innovating with AI in a way that centers equity, urgency, and human dignity.
What impact is AI having on higher education?
Jervise Penton23 April 2024
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve and become more available to the public than ever before, it’s influencing many areas of our lives. From assisting with daily tasks to speeding up business processes within multiple industries, the innovative technology of AI is reshaping the ways in which we work, live and learn.
Civic participation in AI and digital health governance: The role of young people in Kenya and beyond
Tara Imalingat, MSc in Global Health, Social Justice and Public Policy Candidate, Kings College London27 March 2024
In the global discussions on AI and digital health, the Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng released the report on Digital Innovation, Technologies and the Right to Health.
Meet Voiceitt, the startup revolutionizing accessibility through AI
Elizaveta Agurbash26 March 2024
The International Telecommunication Union's AI for Good Innovation Factory is a competition that supports start-ups that are using AI to tackle sustainable development challenges.
Innovate for impact: Submit your use cases and apply to be an AI for Good scholar
14 March 2024
The International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) AI for Good is launching two simultaneous global calls to contribute to a global repository of AI-driven solutions for sustainable development.
Building a better online world: An AI approach to flag sexist content on social media
8 March 2024
Today, on International Women's Day, the fight for gender equality extends beyond physical spaces and into the digital world. Social media has become an integral part of our lives, fostering connection and amplifying voices.
Breaking the silos on AI Research for Good
20 February 2024
Recent trends in AI research are reflecting a shift from purely technological advancements to the creation of AI solutions with significant societal impact. The AI community is increasingly focused on harnessing AI to support crucial global objectives including enhancing education quality, alleviating poverty, and combating climate change.
Beyond automation: The synergy of humans and cognitive robots
Alena Radziukevich7 February 2024
The conversation about cognitive robots is more than just a trend; it's a significant shift in our history.
Artificial Intelligence at the centre of Davos 2024
22 January 2024
The 2024 World Economic Forum meeting in Davos event marked a significant milestone in the AI for Good movement, as Artificial Intelligence (AI) was top of mind and top of the programme.
Pioneering AI for digital accessibility – Insights from “Accessible Europe: ICT 4 ALL”
Alena Radziukevich21 December 2023
The Regional Forum for Europe, "Accessible Europe: ICT 4 ALL," held last week in Madrid, Spain, brought together diverse voices and perspectives, shedding light on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital accessibility.
Autonomous robots for disaster management
Elizaveta Agurbash21 December 2023
Equipped with artificial intelligence and advanced sensors, autonomous robots can navigate through complex and hazardous environments, gather data, and perform specific tasks with minimal human intervention.
Announcing the Judging Criteria for the AI-Driven Art Contest: Canvas of the Future
20 December 2023
Canvas of the Future, the innovative AI-driven art contest by ITU’s AI for Good platform in collaboration with Shutterstock, is a unique opportunity aims to advance the frontier of creativity and technology by sparking global dialogue on how AI can advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
Neurotechnologies, AI, and Human Rights
Elizaveta Agurbash; edited by Alena Radziukevich19 December 2023
In the dynamic intersection of neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and ethical considerations, a remarkable evolution is underway.
Powering Positive Change: Winning solutions from the 2023 tinyML Challenge Finale 
13 December 2023
In a dynamic convergence of minds at AI for Good, the 2023 tinyML Challenge Finale showed how collaborative innovation can produce concrete solutions to power-up positive change.
Cognitively assistive robots for dementia care 
Elizaveta Agurbash  11 December 2023
In the challenging landscape of dementia care, anticipated to skyrocket to 55 million people worldwide, the demand for innovative and lifechanging solutions becomes increasingly urgent.  
Canvas of the Future: AI-Driven Visions of a Sustainable World
11 December 2023
Today is the official launch of Canvas of the Future, a ground-breaking initiative by ITU's AI for Good in collaboration with Shutterstock.
Crowdsourcing AI Solutions for Climate Change: AI-Startup Winners at COP28
Haore Hadi7 December 2023
The 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, reinforced the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions and climate action.
How ITU powers AI action for good
Seizo Onoe1 December 2023
Six months from now, innovators dedicated to artificial intelligence (AI) will reconnect with investors and humanitarians to consider how the latest technologies can work for the good of everyone on the planet.
Crowdsourced innovation for climate change at COP28
Thomas Basikolo30 November 2023
As countries worldwide grapple with climate change, scientists and innovators are exploring novel ways to mitigate its impacts. Innovative approaches from start-ups using artificial intelligence (AI) in predicting, managing, and combating climate change will be highlighted at the upcoming COP28.
Harnessing AI’s potential for a greener tomorrow: Insights from ITU’s AI for Good series
29 November 2023
As the world gears up for COP28, a critical reflection on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and environmental sustainability is timely and imperative.
Ignite change with AI: Applications are open for the Cannes Neuron Awards
20 November 2023
The prestigious Cannes Neuron Awards have announced their call for innovative AI solutions that are shaping the world for the better.
How AI and humans cooperate in protecting workers: A deep dive into machine vision in safety process
12 October 2023
In a world driven by AI advancements, the quest for innovation that can improve safety and security is now gaining significant momentum.
AI for Good gears up for GITEX
4 October 2023
Next month, AI for Good is heading to Dubai for one of the world’s largest tech events in the region.
Inspired by nature: harnessing animal locomotion for robotic innovation and sustainable development
Xiaoran Tang3 October 2023
The interplay between bio-robotics and animal locomotion has opened doors to a plethora of innovations.
AI-Driven Solutions for Climate Disasters provided by Zindi and ITU at AI for Good
27 September 2023
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has partnered with Zindi to develop solutions to important global challenges through a series of data science competitions hosted by AI for Good.
Digital Dentistry benefits from advancements in AI
26 September 2023
At the International Telecommunication Union, the topic of “Dental Diagnostics and Digital Dentistry” (TG-Dental) is bringing together leaders in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in dental research to drive digital transformation in the field.
“We need to set the rules on how we can develop this technology and enable different people and countries to utilize the power of generative AI models” –  A conversation with Ebtesam Almazrouei from TII
Alexandra Bustos Iliescu13 July 2023
The field of AI has seen remarkable advancements in recent years, revolutionizing various sectors and presenting opportunities for positive impact.
“2.7 billion people are still not even online” –  A conversation with Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the ITU
Alexandra Bustos Iliescu11 July 2023
AI has emerged as a groundbreaking technology with the potential to reshape societies and economies.
Scaling-up global action on sustainable development: Winning AI start-up awarded at AI for Good Global Summit
6 July 2023
At the AI for Good Global Summit, the world leading solution from Ultrasound AI, emerged as the winner of the Innovation Factory start-up competition.
Guardrails needed for safe and responsible AI
6 July 2023
We're excited to share this special live-streamed session from the AI for Good Global Summit featuring none other than Yuval Noah Harari, renowned historian, philosopher, and author of 'Sapiens' and 'Homo Deus', and Nicholas Thompson, the dynamic CEO of The Atlantic.
Unveiling the Global Impact of AI – A Deep Dive into the AI for Good Summit
4 July 2023
The intersection of technology and society has never been as dynamic and complex as it is today. This is particularly evident in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which has become a central axis around which our future revolves. As part of the effort to navigate this intricate landscape, the IoT for All podcast recently hosted an enlightening dialogue between two AI experts: Frederic Werner, Head of Strategic Engagement for ITU's Standardization Bureau, and Neil Sahota, CEO of ACSI Labs and United Nations (UN) AI Advisor.
Top 5 ways to engage at the AI for Good Global Summit
29 June 2023
With just one week until the AI for Good Global Summit kicks off in Geneva at ITU, here are the top ways to maximize your participation, both in person and virtually on 5-6 July 2023.
A critical moment for global AI governance
28 June 2023
This week, on 26 June, leaders from the United Nations, industry, and academia gathered online to answer journalists’ burning questions about the rise of generative artificial intelligence and what it means for global governance ahead of the AI for Good Global Summit to be convened by ITU from 6 to 7 July.
What would you ask Ray Kurzweil if you could meet him?
18 May 2023
Ray Kurzweil is set to attend the AI for Good Global Summit 2023 remotely, where he will deliver a keynote speech titled “The Future of Intelligence: Artificial, Natural, and Combined” and engage in a Q&A session, offering attendees a unique opportunity to ask him questions directly.
Generative AI, what can we expect?
Alexandra Bustos Iliescu19 April 2023
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been transforming various industries, and the creative field is no exception. In this article, we will examine how Shutterstock, a leading stock photography platform, is embracing AI to enhance its services while addressing ethical concerns and potential challenges.
Frederic Werner talks AI for Good: Addressing challenges and creating opportunities
Celia Pizzuto5 April 2023
During the World AI Cannes Festival, Lisa Thee, from Launch Consulting Group interviewed Frederic Werner, head of strategic engagement at the International Telecommunication Union, about AI for Good.
How AI for Good is making an impact now and how we can build a more sustainable and inclusive future for all
Alexandra Bustos Iliescu28 March 2023
The World Artificial Intelligence Cannes Festival (WAICF) is an international event that aims to showcase the latest advancements and innovations in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
Meet Needleye Robotics: The start-up providing biopsy and needle-based therapy through AI-powered robotics
Irina Timoshenko24 March 2023
The latest International Telecommunication Union AI For Good Innovation Factory is supporting start-ups that are using artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to solve sustainable development challenges.
A vision to build AI-powered Smart and Sustainable Cities: Are we there yet?
Ebtesam Almazrouei1 March 2023
As the promise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) manifests, we are presented with new opportunities to shape tools and techniques that will help us address some of the major global challenges of our time and deliver solutions that translate into meaningful social and economic impact.
New AI for Biodiversity series: How can we use AI to monitor biodiversity and support conservation actions?
Celia Pizzuto1 March 2023
On 20 February 2023, AI for Good, in partnership with the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, NatureServe, and the Alexander von Humboldt Institute of Colombia, launched a new Discovery series focused on AI for Biodiversity.
How to detect whether text has been generated by ChatGPT?
10 February 2023
The excitement surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at an all-time high, with OpenAI's ChatGPT leading the way in cutting-edge language model technology.
How AI-powered robots can change our lives for good
Irina Timoshenko7 February 2023
The integration of AI in robotics has the potential to create machine learning agents capable of interacting with the environment to complete a range of tasks, bringing humans and technology closer together.
The Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT) of the Republic of Korea partners with the ITU to foster a hospitable environment for artificial intelligence (AI)
LIM, Wan Taek, Deputy director, AI convergence and innovation team, Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT)3 February 2023
Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the driving forces behind change in economies and societies, and its role is becoming more and more important in both creating jobs and solving social problems.
Robotics and AI to predict and fight wildfires
27 January 2023
With global warming, wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense. Current risk management systems are insufficiently equipped to cope with the increasing number of fires.
New ITU focus group invites collaboration for open and inclusive metaverse
20 January 2023
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has established an expert focus group to work towards international technical standards for the metaverse.
Global Survey of AI university curricula – Now Open!
5 January 2023
Calling students (past and present), professors and educators to take part in this online survey to help develop an inventory of artificial intelligence (AI) ethics education in University Curricula, with a specific focus on trustworthy AI, ethics, and responsible technology use.
AI in action: Protecting biodiversity and aiding conservation efforts
Celia Pizzuto5 January 2023
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report released in last year, global warming increasingly threatens ecosystems and species, and is expected to have severe and widespread impacts on global biodiversity.
The days of “bigger is better” are over: Say hello to the power of tinyML
20 December 2022
Big problems sometimes require small solutions. That is one of the key takeaways from the first ever tinyML challenge focused building solutions for smart weather stations.
Discovering new ways to apply AI/ML in communication networks: Meet the winning teams in the ITU AI/ML in 5G Challenge
20 December 2022
Last week on 14 December 2022, the third successful edition of the AI/ML in 5G Challenge was concluded with prize and award announcements for winners of the 2022 edition at the Grand Challenge Finale.
Presenting AI artists and visionaries
Celia Pizzuto16 December 2022
Exploratory. Imaginative. Innovative. Together, these three concepts define the work of world-leading artists using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create unique works of art. These AI artists have been invited to share their visions and perspectives with the United Nations’ community at AI for Good in the Artistic Intelligence Visionary Initiative (A.I.V.I.).
Innovating the World: Meet the winning start-ups from the AI for Good Innovation Factory Grand Finale
Celia Pizzuto7 December 2022
After a year-long quest to find the most promising AI for Good start-ups from across the globe, the Innovation Factory Grand Finale 2022 awarded the top entrepreneurs in a live event that brought together investors, innovators and the development community to advance AI solutions to help advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Social robots changing lives
Irina Timoshenko2 December 2022
Would you adopt a robot as a care-giver for your loved ones? What about a robot social companion? How about an AI-powered robotic teacher?
How AI and the latest technologies can accelerate progress on sustainability goals
Jamie Thomas, General manager, IBM strategy and development1 December 2022
It’s common knowledge that recycling, reducing waste and buying sustainably sourced products are all ways to promote sustainability. But it’s less well-known that some of today’s latest technologies are being used for the same purpose, at scale.
Meet BlueSea Robotics: The start-up building cleaning robots to make the shipping industry more sustainable
25 November 2022
The latest ITU AI For Good Innovation Factory is supporting start-ups that are using artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics to solve sustainable development challenges.
AI and machine learning transforming 5G telecommunications
Miya Nishio25 November 2022
The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been around since the 1950s, when Alan Turing first posed the revolutionary question, “Can machines think?” in his paper Computing Machinery and Intelligence.
Autonomous drones saving lives and powering disaster preparedness
19 October 2022
Last week marked the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. Held every October 13, the day raises awareness about world disasters and the importance of reducing exposure and minimizing risks.
Cracking the code on supply chain sustainability: How AI and data are creating more responsible operations
Sheri Hinish, Global Services and Alliances Lead, IBM Consulting Sustainability Services13 October 2022
Supply chain and sustainability topics have dominated global business headlines for more than two years. The interconnectedness of climate change and supply chain disruptions highlights the complexity of supply chains, including the impact in realizing the 2030 vision of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
AI for Good building connections and expanding presence in South Africa
29 September 2022
At the largest AI event in Africa, AI for Good was present to build connections with AI innovators, change-makers at AI Expo Africa in Johannesburg, South Africa for this 2-day event.
AI expands scope of climate science
13 July 2021
The climate crisis is becoming more urgent and more serious, with increasingly extreme events happening more often.

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