The Bezos Earth Fund has unveiled an AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge, announcing up to $100 million in grants.
This initiative aims to explore how modern AI can address climate change and nature loss, fostering collaboration between environmental groups and leading AI technology providers.
Applications are now open. Apply Here
AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge
The Grand Challenge seeks to answer the critical question: "Can modern AI help counter climate change and nature loss, and, if so, how?"
Jeff Bezos, Executive Chair of the Fund, emphasizes the importance of this initiative by stating, “By bringing together brilliant minds across fields, we may be able to invent new ways forward.”
In its first round, the Grand Challenge will focus on three key areas:
- Sustainable Proteins
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Power Grid Optimization
Additionally, a “Wild Card” category will be available for innovative ideas outside these areas. Each round will have two funding phases.
Initially, up to 30 seed grants will be awarded for promising AI ideas in the focus areas. These awardees will be announced at a Bezos Earth Fund-TED event during Climate Week NYC in late September.
In the second phase, these recipients can apply for grants up to $2 million to develop their concepts into viable solutions, benefiting from mentorship, support from technology leaders, and access to computing infrastructure and relevant datasets.
Lauren Sánchez, Vice Chair of the Fund, highlights the potential of AI in solving global challenges, stating, “AI may have the potential to solve some of our biggest problems, and we’re calling on the planet’s brightest problem solvers to bring their visionary ideas to the table.”
Call for Proposals
The Bezos Earth Fund invites proposals from practitioners, researchers, and innovators from universities, NGOs, private companies, and global organizations.
Selected proposals will likely involve partnerships between organizations addressing climate and nature problems and those with AI expertise. Individual proposals will not be considered.
Dr. Andrew Steer, President and CEO of the Bezos Earth Fund, underscores the importance of this initiative: “The arrival of AI will potentially help solve very difficult challenges. With this program, we hope to make a significant impact.”
The Earth Fund aims to collaborate with those who understand global frontline conditions and what it takes to make an impact.
Recognizing the high costs and evolving nature of AI, the Fund acknowledges that many practitioners lack the necessary technology expertise, infrastructure, or funding to apply AI solutions independently.
Meanwhile, AI innovators might understand the potential and practical application of AI technologies but lack experience in implementing climate or nature solutions.
Creating New Alliances
By fostering new alliances among innovators across climate, nature, and AI, the Bezos Earth Fund aims to identify and support impactful AI-powered solutions.
Rapid deployment of targeted funding, combined with access to mentorship and other resources, will help accelerate and nurture these solutions.
The Grand Challenge will span three years, with the first round focusing on sustainable protein development, biodiversity conservation, and power grid optimization.
The Challenge also welcomes other innovative ideas across climate and nature. Committed to equity and access, the Grand Challenge is open to participants worldwide.
Stay Informed
The submission process for the first round of the Grand Challenge are now open.
Sign up to stay informed about key dates and opportunities.
