Selection process

How recipients of the Bulgarian Award are selected?

The LERAI Foundation, as the founding body of IOAI, holds full and final authority to select the recipient(s) of the Bulgarian IOAI Award.

The award may be granted to individuals, teams, or organizations that have demonstrated one or more of the following:

  • Positively shaped and elevated the IOAI’s international standing and legacy, through direct contributions to its development, image, or strategic impact
  • Advanced AI education or ethical AI innovation, in a way that aligns with IOAI’s mission—fostering inclusion, responsibility, and global engagement among young people
  • Inspired the creation, spirit, or direction of IOAI, through visionary leadership or influence in artificial intelligence, science education, or global collaboration, even without formal involvement
  • Demonstrated sustained commitment to the broader AI community, encouraging ethical, cross-cultural, and interdisciplinary progress that reflects IOAI’s core values
  • The LERAI Foundation conducts an internal review process and selects one or more recipients annually
  • In exceptional cases, the award may be given jointly or withheld
  • The award is formally presented during the Opening or Closing Ceremony of the annual IOAI
  • Recipients receive an official distinction recognizing their outstanding contribution and are honored across IOAI platforms, publications, and events
  • Where appropriate, the LERAI Foundation or Local Organizing Committee may support travel and accommodation for recipients attending the award ceremony

The LERAI Foundation reserves the right to revise the criteria, process, and timing of the Bulgarian IOAI Award at its sole discretion, in alignment with IOAI’s evolving mission and values.