Deadline:
August 01, 2026
Program Starts: November 15, 2026
Program Ends: November 19, 2026
Location(s)
United Arab Emirates
Dubai
Overview
Details
The most comprehensive network of university innovators worldwide
Our global academic network provides direct access to world-class innovation from leading research institutions. With representation across every continent, we identify breakthrough discoveries with the potential to drive commercial success and deliver meaningful social and environmental impact.
Our Company
Prototypes for Humanity is the Innovation arm of the Art Dubai Group established 20 years ago as a private public partnership with the government of Dubai and the Dubai International Financial Center.
Our History
We were established in 2014 as a showcase for university projects. We have evolved into a global platform with a dedicated team to bridge our growing list of Industry Partners with our proprietary network of 20,000 professors across 120 countries.
Our Patrons
Prototypes for Humanity is held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and member of the Dubai Council.
Key Dates
- 18 May: Priority Application Deadline
- 1 August: Final Submission Deadline
- 1 October: Results Communication
- 15–19 November: Annual Summit in Dubai
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Who can participate?
Participation is free and open to:
- Current undergraduate and postgraduate university students
- Graduates who completed their studies within the past two years.
Projects may be submitted by individuals or teams, with no limit on team size. Applications are welcome from participants at any university, in any country.
Evaluation criteria
- Impact: We seek solutions with the potential to create meaningful real-world change, whether addressing social issues, environmental threats, or challenges within local communities. Demonstrating clear impact is essential.
- Application of Technology: Innovative and effective use of technology (high-tech or low-tech) is key, whether incorporating cutting-edge advancements or utilising simple yet efficient solutions.
- Academic Rigour: Projects should be grounded in strong research, show a clear understanding of the problem, and present a thoughtful, innovative solution.
We’d like you to tell us
- What problem are you addressing?
- How are existing solutions failing?
- What is your alternative solution?
- How does it perform better?
- What impact does your solution have?
Dates
Deadline: August 01, 2026
Program starts:
November 15, 2026
Program ends:
November 19, 2026
Program Starts: November 15, 2026
Program Ends: November 19, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
Why Apply?
- Exhibit in Dubai: Present your project at the heart of Dubai’s innovation ecosystem, connecting with key public and private sector stakeholders.
- Build your Venture: Access funding opportunities, industry partnerships, and expert support to accelerate your project’s journey from research to market.
- Global Promotion: Feature your work alongside the world’s leading university innovations, gaining international visibility through global media platforms.
- Awards: Selected projects will receive a share of a $100,000 awards fund. These awards recognise projects that demonstrate strong innovation, meaningful impact, and clear potential for real-world application.
- Join A Global Community: Connect with our network of innovators and changemakers, with dedicated content spotlighting your work shared across the Prototypes for Humanity community.
Travel and Accommodation
We provide 100 selected projects with support to attend the summit in Dubai for both the leading student and supervisor. This includes:
- Hotel accommodation
- Flight subsidy
- Spending allowance
- Transport between the hotel, summit venue, and programme activities
- Curated social events
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
