internXL’s AI Innovation Challenge at Aware Fest 2026

Pitch your groundbreaking AI solution for a chance to win CASH Prizes and showcase your idea at Aware Fest in Atlanta, GA!

AT HBCU AWARE FEST

Welcome to the internXL AI Innovation Challenge at Aware Fest 2026!

This year, internXL is proud to host our third AI Innovation Challenge at Aware Fest. This is a great opportunity for scholars to showcase their ideas, connect with industry leaders, and win cash prizes.

We’re looking for bold, creative AI-powered ideas that solve real-world problems and make a measurable impact in health, environmental/climate justice, and public interest technology.

Participants will work in teams to tackle pressing challenges and develop groundbreaking solutions that demonstrate how AI can create real change.

Ready to make an impact? Join us to get inspired, learn from experts, and compete for great rewards!

We invite you to build a better future using the power of artificial intelligence.

This is your chance to pitch your groundbreaking idea, win amazing cash prizes, and attend Aware Fest 2026 in Atlanta, GA—all expenses paid!

internXL AI Innovation Challenge Details

The internXL AI Innovation Challenge is a two-day experience that aims to develop and retain top-tier AI talent while solving pressing challenges.

AI Innovation Accelerator (6-Week Training): The AI Innovation Accelerator is a dynamic six-week experience designed to equip rising talent with the tools, skills, and mindset needed to thrive in an AI-driven world. Participants are fully immersed in learning the essential AI tools through hands-on training and direct mentorship from industry leaders.
Hackathon (Day 1 - March 22nd): Participants use cutting-edge generative AI tools to address real-world problems.
Finalist Presentations at the Idea Competition (Day 2 - March 23rd): Teams present their innovative solutions to a panel of industry leaders for funding and recognition.

Create an AI Pitch on One of the Following Topics:

Black Maternal Health

Focus on addressing systemic health disparities and improving maternal outcomes for Black women through AI.

Environmental & Climate Justice

Explore AI-driven innovations that tackle the challenges of climate change while promoting equity and sustainability for vulnerable communities.

Public Interest Technology

Led by the Ford Foundation, this theme focuses on leveraging AI to address public issues, with an emphasis on equity and inclusivity.

How to Enter

Team Formation

Form a team of 3 members who are passionate about AI and innovation.

Commitment

Commit to the AI Innovation Accelerator six-week training period leading up to the event.

Apply

Click the button below to apply today!

Amazing Prizes

Full Relocation Package:

Flights, room, and board are covered for all competing students to attend the Innovation Challenge.

Cash Prizes:

Monetary rewards for the top teams, with the chance to win grand prizes.

Networking & Mentorship:

Opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain hands-on mentorship, and build meaningful professional networks.

Students will have the opportunity to win other exclusive prizes and experiences!

Important Dates

Application Submission: January 27th - February 9th
Application Deadline: February 9th
AI Innovation Accelerator: February 15th - March 21st
AI Hackathon: March 22nd
Finalists Presentations: March 23rd at the internXL AI Innovation Challenge in Atlanta, GA

Judging Criteria

Innovation: How creative and original is your AI solution?
Impact: What is the potential social, environmental, or economic impact of your pitch?
Feasibility: Can your solution be realistically implemented?
Presentation: How clear and compelling is your pitch, both in the video and the proposal?

Finalists will be flown to Atlanta to pitch their ideas live in front of a panel of industry experts and thought leaders, with all expenses covered by internXL.