The night before the G20 Leaders’ Summit opens in Miami, a global AI awards program will hold its Americas Chapter here.
The Universal AI Awards takes place Sunday, December 13, at the JW Marriott Marquis. The summit runs December 14 and 15.
Knowledge Networks organizes the Universal AI Awards. The program follows an inaugural India Chapter in New Delhi earlier this month.
What the Awards Reward
Knowledge Networks says the evening will honor AI work that delivers measurable results. Entrants must also meet a high bar for ethics, transparency and governance.
There are more than 15 categories. They include AI in Financial Services and FinTech, Generative AI Application of the Year and AI for Social Good.
Visionary Leader of the Year is also on the list.
“What we’re celebrating in Miami is excellence: AI that works, is built and led well, and makes a measurable difference,” said founder and chairman Sanjay K. Puri.
Who Can Enter
Entry is free. Organizations must be American-registered, with at least six months of registered presence in the United States.
Qualifying leaders and research professionals can also enter. Nominations close November 10, 2026.
That eligibility rule matters for Miami. Any U.S.-registered company or research group here that meets the six-month test can apply.
What the India Chapter Delivered
The organizer says the New Delhi event drew more than 300 attendees from over 100 organizations. It honored at least 21 winners.
Those figures come from Knowledge Networks, not an independent count.
EY serves as Process Advisor. Its role is to support the evaluation method, process governance and assessment framework, so entries are judged consistently.
Knowledge Networks also lists an advisory board of policy, business and science figures. It includes the secretary general of Club de Madrid and the CEO of General Atomics Global Corporation.
Why the Timing Matters
Global attention is turning to Miami for the G20. An awards night on the eve gives local AI companies a stage during that week.
That is an opportunity for Miami founders. It is also a promotional platform for the organizer, and entrants should weigh both.
Puri said governance is a growing part of the AI story. In Miami, he said, the focus is excellence.
Who Is Behind It
Knowledge Networks calls itself a global hub for AI governance, leadership and responsible innovation. Its platforms include the RegulatingAI podcast and CAIO Connect, a network of chief AI officers.
It lists partnerships with Club de Madrid, ITU’s AI for Good and Ai4. Those descriptions come from the organizer.
Nominations close November 10. The ceremony is set for the eve of the G20 summit.
Key Dates
Nominations close: November 10, 2026
Awards ceremony: December 13, 2026, JW Marriott Marquis, Miami
G20 Leaders’ Summit: December 14-15, 2026
Nominate at awards.knowledgenetworks.org/region/miami.