Knowledge Networks launches global AI governance awards

Knowledge Networks has launched the Universal AI Awards, a three-continent recognition program for leaders in responsible AI, governance, ethics and policy. The first edition opens in New Delhi on Sept. 17, 2026, with nominations due Aug. 1 for the India event. Why it matters: - The Universal AI Awards gives responsible AI, governance and ethics leaders a dedicated global platform. - The program arrives as governments and companies are still building accountability systems for AI deployment. - Knowledge Networks is positioning the awards as a benchmark for AI leadership across enterprise, policy and civil society. What happened: - Knowledge Networks announced the launch of the Universal AI Awards, a global recognition program spanning Asia-Pacific, Europe and the United States. - The Washington, D.C.-based AI governance organization was founded by Sanjay K. Puri. - The inaugural edition will be held in New Delhi, India, on Sept. 17, 2026. - The next editions are planned for Amsterdam in October 2026 and Miami in December 2026. - The final ceremony is planned on the sidelines of the G20 Summit. The details: - The awards program covers four pillars: Enterprise and Industry Transformation, Innovation and Technology Leadership, Responsible AI and Governance and Ethics, and Leadership and People and Social Impact. - Nominations will be reviewed by a jury of senior policymakers, Fortune 500 executives, academics and civil society leaders. - Knowledge Networks says the jury was selected for expertise, credibility and geographic diversity. - Independent process partners will oversee the evaluation process as institutional guarantors of integrity and transparency. - Nominations are merit-based and open at no cost to individuals, organizations and institutions. - The India Edition is open to chief executive officers, chief AI officers, chief data officers, policymakers, regulators, academics, investors, civil society leaders and AI-focused enterprises and scale-ups. - Organizations and individuals may self-nominate or be nominated by a third party. - The nomination deadline for the India Edition is Aug. 1, 2026. - Sponsorship, jury membership and global advisory board positions are now open. - More information is available at awards.knowledgenetworks.org . Between the lines: - The launch reflects a push to give AI governance more visible status as the technology expands faster than oversight frameworks. - Starting the program in India signals a focus on one of the largest and fastest-moving AI markets. - The multi-region format suggests Knowledge Networks wants the awards to function as a global policy and leadership platform, not just an industry prize. What’s next: - Knowledge Networks will accept nominations for the India Edition until Aug. 1, 2026. - The first ceremony will take place in New Delhi on Sept. 17, 2026. - The awards will then move to Amsterdam and Miami later in 2026. - The G20-side ceremony is intended to extend the program’s visibility among global policymakers and AI leaders. The bottom line: - Knowledge Networks is betting that AI governance needs not just rules, but public recognition for the people and institutions trying to set them.