AI for Good Innovation Factory – Australia

AI for Good Innovation Factory Australia – PITCHING CONTEST

Empowering AI for Social Impact

Innovate Australia is hosting the very first Australian chapter of the United Nations’ International Telecommunication Union (ITU) AI for Good Innovation Factory Contest. This Competition and Summit will bring together AI start-ups, industry experts, and thought leaders to showcase AI-driven solutions that address global challenges aligned with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

22 start-ups have applied, 5 finalists will be judged by a Perth panel on Thursday 27 March 5.30pm AWST at The Platform – 256 Adelaide Terrace, Perth and will also be live-streamed.

The finalists – Chinoke, IOOKI AI, Project Ohm, Smart Resources Connect, and SYNAPTA – are each using AI to address critical global challenges aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Their projects span diverse areas, including energy efficiency, education accessibility, advanced language services, sustainable resource management, and climate action.

‘Innovate Australia is proud to bring this prestigious global program to our nation,’ said Peter Kasprzak, Chairman of Innovate Australia. ‘These five finalists represent the pinnacle of Australian AI innovation, and we are excited to see them compete for the opportunity to showcase their solutions on the world stage.’

The winner of the Perth competition will gain exclusive access to the AI for Good Accelerator, where they will receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and potential funding. They will then represent Australia in Geneva, competing with top AI startups globally.

The AI for Good Innovation Factory has already supported AI solutions in over 150 countries, connecting startups with major investors, industry leaders, and policymakers. Now, with Perth as an official host city, this initiative will further elevate Australia’s reputation as a hub for AI innovation and responsible technology development.

The press and public are invited to witness this showcase of AI innovation.

Supported by the City of Perth, Meshpoints, and industry partners, this event cements Perth’s role as a leader in AI innovation and social good. Be part of this global movement and help shape the future of AI-driven progress.

🌟 AI for Good Innovation Factory Finalists:

(in alphabetical order)

🔹 Chinoke Intl AI for Sustainable Development

Chinoke Intl is transforming global sustainability through AI-powered solutions that optimize water management, improve agricultural efficiency, and support climate action. Using satellite imagery, IoT sensors, and machine learning, the platform delivers real-time insights to farmers, governments, and NGOs, enhancing resource management and reducing waste. Early pilots have demonstrated 30% water savings and 20% yield improvements, showcasing its potential for large-scale impact. With proprietary AI algorithms tailored to diverse environments, Chinoke focuses on underserved communities, ensuring inclusive innovation. By integrating AI with sustainability goals, Chinoke is driving measurable change in agriculture, clean energy, and environmental conservation.

🔹 IOOKI AI-Powered Interpreter Training

IOOKI is an Australian AI R&D lab developing a groundbreaking tri-conversational AI interpreter training platform. The global language services industry faces a severe shortage of skilled interpreters due to limited real-world practice opportunities. IOOKI solves this by using AI-driven multi-person scenarios, allowing trainees to practice in realistic, dynamic conversations. Our AI adapts to cultural nuances, optimises learning pathways, and accelerates certification. Future developments include scenario builders for corporations and blockchain-based verification of training progress. IOOKI enhances interpreter education, reducing costs and training time, while addressing global challenges in accessibility, education, and workforce development.

🔹 Project Ohm Pioneering Sustainable AI Computing

Project Ohm is revolutionising AI computing by addressing the critical challenge of sustainable energy use. With AI-driven data centres projected to consume as much energy as Japan by 2026, our solution introduces decentralised, energy-aware high-performance computing (HPC) nodes powered by stranded renewable energy. These compact, transportable nodes dynamically adjust AI workloads based on real-time energy availability, strengthening the grid while reducing carbon emissions. Working on collaborations with researchers from UWA and Oxford, Project Ohm leverages AI for predictive analytics, demand response, and grid optimisation. Aligning with six UN Sustainable Development Goals, we ensure AI’s future is both powerful and sustainable.

🔹 Smart Resource Connect AI-Powered Surplus Redistribution

Smart Resource Connect is an AI-driven platform that dynamically matches surplus goods from businesses with nonprofits and communities in need. Using machine learning, it optimizes resource distribution by analysing availability, urgency, location, and demand in real time. Unlike manual donation systems, our AI-driven approach reduces waste, improves logistics, and enhances social impact. Businesses lower disposal costs while supporting corporate social responsibility efforts. With predictive analytics, automated logistics, and an open surplus submission protocol, Smart Resource Connect ensures that food, materials, and essential goods reach the right people at the right time, maximizing efficiency and sustainability.

🔹 SYNAPTA AI-Powered Higher Education Transformation

SYNAPTA revolutionises education with an AI-driven platform enhancing plagiarism detection, grading, and personalised learning. Phase 1: Sypher tackles AI-assisted plagiarism with advanced NLP, deep learning, and academic progression tracking. Phase 2: Critora automates grading using RAG models, NLP rubrics, and AI-generated personalised feedback, reducing marking time from weeks to minutes. Phase 3: Axion creates tailored learning pathways through AI-driven behavioural analysis, AR/VR, and retention curve algorithms. SYNAPTA enhances tutor efficiency, optimises student learning, and ensures academic integrity while aligning with five UN Sustainable Development Goals, fostering quality education, innovation, and inclusivity in higher learning.

Finalists will pitch no longer than 5 minutes per startup, followed by 10 minutes Q&A with judges.

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