Applications Now Open

Applications Now Open

Ready to make an impact?

Present your project at the 2026 Dubai Future Solutions - Prototypes for Humanity summit in Dubai, 15-19 November 2026

Apply now and take your place on the global stage

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.

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?

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
Key Dates
4 May
Priority Application Deadline
1 August
Final Submission Deadline
1 October
Results Communication
15–19 November
Annual Summit in Dubai