internXL’s AI Innovation Challenge at AfroTech 2025

Share your groundbreaking AI solution for a chance to win CASH Prizes and showcase your idea at AfroTech in Houston, TX!

Welcome to the internXL AI Innovation Challenge at AfroTech 2025!

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

Participants will work in teams to solve pressing challenges and develop groundbreaking solutions that demonstrate the power of AI for 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 submit your groundbreaking idea, win amazing cash prizes, and attend AfroTech 2025 in Houston, TX—all expenses paid!

internXL AI Innovation Challenge Details

The internXL AI Innovation Challenge is a transformative six-week program that culminates in a two-day experience, aiming 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): Participants use cutting-edge generative AI tools to address real-world problems.
Idea Competition (Day 2): 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 AFROTECH.

Cash
Prizes:

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

Networking & Mentorship:

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

AFROTECH conference tickets:

Students will be able to attend the 2025 AfroTech Conference.

Winners will receive exclusive access to the AfroTech 2025 Conference, where they will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders, innovators, and employers.

Important Dates (subject to change)

Application Submission: August 21 - September 5th
Application Deadline: September 5th
Orientation & Overview: September 9th - September 12th
Weekly Trainings: September 12th - October 24th
Presentation Practice & Review: Week of October 24th
Finalists Presentations: October 30th at the internXL’s AI Innovation Challenge in Houston, TX

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 Houston to pitch their ideas live in front of a panel of industry experts and thought leaders, with all expenses covered by internXL.