The Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI) is excited to announce a new initiative to bring timely, trustworthy, and engaging public education on AI to local communities around the world. We are now accepting proposals for AAAI-sponsored “AAAIx” Pop-Up Events — TEDx-style talks, panels, or public forums designed to engage, educate and empower general audiences on topics related to artificial intelligence.
These pop-up events, led by AAAI members are intended to broaden our reach through community-driven, in-person and hybrid gatherings around the globe.
History
The AAAIx initiative was launched in Fall 2025 and received a strong response, with proposals submitted from around the world. Seven projects were selected for the inaugural round. More information about these projects can be found here: AIx 2026.
What We’re Looking For
We invite creative and community-focused proposals for events that:
- Deliver accurate, engaging, and accessible information about AI.
- Are open to the public.
- Reflect local relevance and highlight regional AI work or themes.
- Demonstrate local support and sustainability, including partnerships and sponsorships.
- Contribute to public engagement across the globe with AI research and applications.
Examples of eligible projects include and are not limited to a podcast miniseries leading to a live pop-up event in a public venue; a panel discussion on AI for agriculture in rural areas; a regional showcase of university and startup AI work, followed by a public Q&A; a community workshop on AI workforce development, cost savings, general societal impact etc.
Funding Support and Deliverables
Support is available for pilot events at various scales. Selected proposals will receive funding support ranging from $500-$1500 per proposal.
Funded events upon completion will be expected to provide a:
- Short video of event highlights in English to be shared on the AAAI youtube channel.
- Summary report with webpage and event details.
- Event photos and other material.
Proposal Guidelines
Each proposal should be no more than 2000 words and should include the following sections with titles:
- Title – Proposed title for the event and purpose in a single sentence.
- Organizing Team (please use a bulleted list)
- Names, affiliation, AAAI membership id contact information of all team members(email and address)
- Clearly identify primary contact.
- Clearly identify current AAAI member on team.
- Event Description – Theme, format (talks, panels, workshops), and goals.
- Target Audience – Who will attend, expected number of participants and how outreach will be conducted. AAAI will also be able to assist with advertising the event on its webpage and social media.
- Finances and Budget Request –
- Estimated costs and requested funding in USD only (tiered support available);
- Provide details of matching funds from local organizations, if any;
- Details on institution(s) that will receive funding and how AAAI funding will be handled by proposer.
AAAI will reimburse costs upon proof of receipt and event details.
- Justification – Why this project now and at the location? Expertise and background of proposers that will help make this project feasible and ensure successful implementation.
- Local Support – Institutional or community partnerships, venue, sponsorships
- Timeline – Including proposed event date and planning milestones
All events should abide by the AAAI code of conduct. We strongly encourage proposals from all regions of the world.
Key Dates
- Proposal Deadline: Tuesday, December 15, 2026, (23:59 UTC-12 or Anywhere on Earth (AOE)
- Notification of Acceptance: Mid-Late January, 2027
- Pilot Event Window: February 2027 – October 2027
How to Submit
Please submit your proposal and/or questions by the proposal deadline via the online form.
Questions?
Email membershipAIPop@aaai.org with questions about this program.