The Keep The Future Human Creative Contest is an international creative challenge designed to inspire artists, writers, technologists, and thinkers to explore humanity’s relationship with artificial intelligence. Hosted by Anthony Aguirre, author of the influential essay “Keep The Future Human,” in collaboration with the Future of Life Institute, the contest offers over $100,000 in prizes for outstanding creative digital media projects. Participants are invited to submit original works such as videos, short films, essays, games, interactive experiences, workshops, or even policy proposals that address the central question of how humanity can maintain control, purpose, and meaning in a future shaped by AI.
The competition seeks to raise awareness of the existential risks and ethical challenges posed by superintelligent systems, while also inspiring solutions and narratives that keep human values at the heart of technological progress. Entrants are encouraged to interpret and expand on the core ideas presented in Aguirre’s essay, engaging deeply with concepts like alignment, consciousness, and the preservation of human agency. Through creative storytelling and innovation, the contest aims to foster global dialogue around AI safety, governance, and the human future, bridging the gap between art, science, and policy.
Open to individuals and teams of all ages from around the world, the Keep The Future Human Creative Contest welcomes diverse perspectives and creative formats. Submissions will be judged on how effectively they engage with the themes of the essay, their creative execution, and their accessibility to a broad audience. By combining creativity with critical reflection, the contest positions itself as a leading global initiative for AI awareness and ethical innovation, encouraging participants to imagine a future where technology remains human-centered and aligned with our shared values.
There is no entry fee.
Eligibility
Open to individuals or teams worldwide, any age, entries must be in English and prize money can only be paid to winners over 18 (or via a sponsor for under-18s).
Prize
A prize pool of over $100,000 in cash awards, including 5 grand prizes of $10,000 each, 10 runner-up prizes of $5,000 each, up to 5 special prizes of $2,500 each, plus the possibility of $500+ mini-grants for strong distribution plans, all winners receiving limited-edition merchandise (paperback of the essay, hoodies/t-shirts/caps).
