Applications Open: Presidential AYAIR Competition 2026

Applications have officially opened for the 3rd Presidential African Youth in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Competition (AYAIR) 2026. Organised by Ele-vate AI Africa alongside the African Union development ecosystem, the 2026 edition is being hosted by the Government of Egypt to serve as one of the continent’s largest innovation platforms for emerging technologies.

Target Applicants and Eligibility

The competition targets tech-driven solutions addressing structural challenges across Africa. Eligible applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Age Bracket: Open to young Africans aged between 15 and 35 years. (Applicants under 18 require parental or guardian consent).
• Target Audience: Open to students, researchers, startups, innovators, and technology enthusiasts from all African Union member states.
• Core Sectors: Submissions are accepted across various categories including AI in Mining, Futuristic FinTech, Healthcare Solutions, Agricultural Technology, Best Robotics Design, Climate Action Technology, and Quantum Computing.

Prizes and Finalist Benefits

The platform accelerates participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by offering critical visibility and networking infrastructure. Finalists stand to gain:

• A share of cash prizes worth up to $120,000.
• Direct exposure to regional policymakers, researchers, investors, and industry leaders.
• Strategic commercialization, incubation, and startup acceleration support.
• Continental and global recognition at upcoming international technology events.

Key Deadlines and Timeline

• Submission Deadline: June 30, 2026.
• Judging Phase: June 2026.
• Global Recognition Events: July 2026.
• Official Awards Ceremony: September/October 2026.

Interested innovators can access the official portal and apply directly:

Click Here to Apply