Frequently Asked Questions

SocGov (“Society” and “Governance”) is an initiative with global impact potential, focused on innovative public administration in the social sphere.

The International Forum and Social Award on ‘SOCGOV 2026: Digital Analytics for Smart Governance’ is an international forum and social award ceremony dedicated to promoting innovation in social governance, improving public service delivery and developing inclusive policies.

The main objective of SOCGOV 2026 is to strengthen the role of digital analytics, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making in social policy formulation, as well as to expand regional and international cooperation platforms.

SOCGOV 2026 is organized by the Agency for Sustainable and Operative Social Provision (DOST Agency) under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

SOCGOV 2026 will be held on 23 October 2026 in the city of Khankendi, Republic of Azerbaijan.

SOCGOV 2026 is organized as an in-person global forum and award ceremony, with additional hybrid participation options available.

•    representatives of government agencies 
•    international organizations 
•    non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations 
•    academic and research institutions 
•    social innovators, startups and enterprises 
•    sectoral experts and specialists, etc. 

The mission of SOCGOV is to achieve global exchange of innovative applications in social services.

SOCGOV 2026 covers the following topics:

-    digitalization of social services and application of innovative governance models;
-    improvement of decision-making processes through artificial intelligence and data analytics;
-    discussion of the possibilities of studying and applying advanced international experience in the social sector;
-    promotion of cooperation between public, private sector and international organizations;
-    showcasing and awarding innovative solutions in the social sector.

To participate in the forum, you can apply by registering via the following link:

alpha-summit.sosial.gov.az/az/registration

Within the framework of the “SocGov 2026 – Digital Analytics for Smart Governance” forum, a competition is announced to promote innovative initiatives, scientific approaches, civic participation, and individual leadership in the social sector.

The objective of the competition is to identify best practices, innovative solutions, and high social impact initiatives and individuals distinguished in this direction, to promote their activities, and to ensure public recognition of them.

Upon completion of acceptance of applications, submitted applications and materials will be systematized and submitted to the jury.

The evaluation stage by the jury is planned to take place from August 1, 2026, to October 1, 2026.

To contact the SOCGOV team, you can write to the email address info-socgov@sosial.gov.az or call the number +994 12 525 50 26.

To participate in the competition, you can apply by registering and submitting the application form via the link below:

socgov.az/en/application

Submitted applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Innovation and technology - 25 points
• Social impact and inclusiveness - 25 points
• Sustainability - 20 points
• Ethical and digital governance - 15 points
• Cooperation and partnership - 15 points

You can find detailed information about the evaluation criteria at the link below:

socgov.az/en/evaluation

•    government agencies; 
•    non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations; 
•    academic and research institutions;
•    social innovators, startups and enterprises; 
•    sectoral experts and specialists.

The SOCGOV 2026 Award is presented in the following categories:

1. AI-Driven Digital Solutions in the Social Sector

This category accepts submissions featuring innovative solutions based on artificial intelligence, data analytics, and other digital technologies applied in the delivery of social services and the management of social welfare.

2. Social Volunteering and Civic Initiatives

Applications in this category include volunteer activities aimed at improving social welfare, civic initiatives, community-based projects, and support mechanisms for vulnerable groups.

3. Scientific Contribution to Social Sector Development

This category evaluates scientific research, analytical studies, and academic contributions in the fields of social policy, social services, social welfare, digitalization, and social governance.

4. Regional Social Initiative

Applications in this category include innovative and sustainable community-based initiatives and projects tailored to local needs and aimed at addressing social issues in regions.

5. Individual nominations

5.1. Young Social Innovator of the Year

5.2. Social Transformation Leader / Entrepreneur

5.3. Continuous contribution to the development of the social sector