AI Awards 2026: Trustworthy AI

Artificial intelligence has become an inseparable part of our lives. It helps us solve complex problems, makes our work more efficient, and opens doors to new opportunities in science, business, and everyday life. As its influence grows, so does our responsibility to think about how we develop and use it.

At KInIT, we believe that technology should help people, not harm them. That is why, for the third year in a row, we are co-organising AI Awards, an initiative that highlights Slovak companies and teams that approach artificial intelligence ethically, transparently and with respect for its social impact.

The third edition is now open

AI Awards 2026: Trustworthy AI was officially announced by Mária Bieliková, CEO of KInIT, on September 30, 2025, at the SAPIE Forum.

Registration is open until January 31, 2026. Both companies and individuals working with artificial intelligence in Slovakia, or in partnership with international collaborators, can apply.

A look back at last year

In May 2025, we celebrated the second successful edition of the AI Awards.

The awards ceremony took place during Forbes Business Fest, where we recognised AI projects that combine technological excellence with ethical principles.

The AI Awards are a joint effort by KInIT and Hopero promoting trustworthy and responsible AI solutions in Slovakia.

The 2025 finalists included:

Cisco Systems Slovakia – integrating AI into audience interaction, enhancing security and efficiency

elv.ai – combining AI and human expertise to manage online discussions

Medannot – ensuring ethical handling of medical data

PredictiveDataScience – transforming data into actionable insights with AI

TrollWall AI – detecting and managing harmful online content

“AI Awards is a recognition for companies that develop and deploy AI systems responsibly. It’s not just about following regulations, but also about respecting ethical principles and values,” said Juraj Podroužek, Researcher at KInIT and Chairman of the Evaluation Committee.

For KInIT, the AI Awards are more than just an event. It’s a space to share knowledge, exchange experiences and strengthen the community of people who believe in trustworthy, human-centred AI.

Why trustworthy AI matters

The theme of this year’s edition is Trustworthy AI.

It focuses on systems that are reliable, transparent, secure and respectful of users’ privacy.

At KInIT, we see trustworthy AI as a practical challenge – a way to build technology that earns people’s trust and creates real value for society.

Building a responsible AI future together

AI Awards are part of the Hopero project and the European Digital Innovation Hub in Slovakia.

Together, we want to make Slovakia a place where innovation and responsibility grow side by side.

Apply for the AI Awards 2026 by January 31, 2026, through this link.

Let’s show that Slovakia is a place where technology and trust go hand in hand.