AI for Good: Unlocking Economic Opportunity in a Changing World.”

Zoom and data.org have announced a major global initiative that aims to redefine the intersection of AI, economic opportunity, and community resilience. The Activate AI: Economic Opportunity Challenge is now accepting applications worldwide until January 8, 2026, inviting bold, innovative, and socially driven AI solutions from nonprofits, social entrepreneurs, and mission-aligned organizations.

This global call centers on one mission:
using artificial intelligence to empower people and communities toward a more resilient economic future.

.

.

A Challenge Shaping the Future Economy

The competition seeks projects that leverage data and AI to advance three critical areas shaping the next decade:

1. AI-Powered Workforce Development

Solutions that provide training, upskilling, and accessible career pathways.

2. Future-Ready Job Creation

Initiatives that design new types of jobs and economic models for an AI-enabled world.

3. Climate-Resilient Communities & the Green Economy

AI-driven tools that support adaptation, sustainability, and economic resilience.

At least five winning teams will receive a comprehensive award package, including:

• $115,000 USD in grant funding

• Access to data science talent

• Staff training and technical consultation

• Media, marketing, and storytelling support

• Software and infrastructure licenses

These in-kind resources position the Challenge as one of the most impactful opportunities for mission-driven AI innovators globally.

.

A leadership experience focused on energy, connection, and momentum.
Apply / RSVP Here

.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to:

• Nonprofit organizations

• For-profit social enterprises

• Government agencies

• Coalitions or partnerships (with one lead entity)

All projects must serve a charitable purpose as defined under Section 501(c)(3) of U.S. tax law — ensuring that outcomes are socially beneficial and not primarily profit-driven.

Entries must also demonstrate responsible AI practices, community-centered design, and a clear path to scale.

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated on:

• Impact on economic opportunity

• Local relevance and understanding of community needs

• Responsible AI design

• Originality and innovation

• Feasibility of implementation

• Scalability for broader adoption

20–25 finalists will advance to Phase 2 for interviews and additional documentation before at least five winners are selected.

Why This Challenge Matters Now

AI is rapidly transforming industries — but its greatest impact may be in the realm of economic mobility:
helping individuals gain skills, access better work, and build resilience in the face of global uncertainty.

Economic opportunity is no longer defined only by markets; it is increasingly shaped by algorithms, data access, and community-level innovation.

NYBEX Insight:

“This Challenge signals a new frontier: AI not just as a competitive advantage, but as a shared infrastructure for economic empowerment. The next wave of leadership will belong to organizations that use technology to elevate people — not replace them.”

Applications Close January 8, 2026

Global social impact innovators, nonprofits, and AI-driven community builders are encouraged to apply.

🔗 Apply here
🌍 Global applicants welcome
💡 One entry per organization