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Atlanta, GA — internXL will host its dynamic AI Innovation Challenge at HBCU AwareFest in Atlanta, bringing together top student talent, industry leaders, and community changemakers for an evening focused on the future of artificial intelligence and workforce innovation.
The event will feature student teams presenting AI-powered solutions designed to address some of today’s most pressing challenges; from healthcare and climate to education, economic mobility, and beyond. The Challenge builds on internXL’s growing national footprint as a workforce development initiative preparing students for high-demand careers in AI and emerging technology.
“We are excited to bring the AI Innovation Challenge to Atlanta and to AwareFest,” said Ivana Jackson, Director of internXL. “This event is about more than pitching ideas, it’s about equipping students with the skills, confidence, and exposure they need to lead in the AI-driven economy.”
The AI Innovation Challenge is the culmination of weeks of preparation, training, and mentorship. Students participate in hands-on AI certifications and collaborative hackathon-style development before taking the stage to pitch their solutions to a panel of expert judges.
Attendees can expect:
- Live AI pitches from rising innovators
- Networking with tech leaders, recruiters, and founders
- Interactive audience engagement opportunities
- Expert judges from leading companies
- Cash prizes for top teams
As AI continues reshaping industries, internXL’s programming focuses on pairing technical skill-building with real-world application. The initiative uses its AI-powered talent matching engine and AI curriculum curation engine on the platform to help students build future-ready careers.
Investor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Robert F. Smith is dedicated to expanding opportunity for students. Under Smith’s leadership as Founding Director and President at Fund II Foundation he has developed initiatives like internXL that help students build skills, gain work experience, and strengthen pathways from education to employment. Through programs like the AI Innovation Challenge, internXL is helping students prepare for, and shape, the future of work.
AwareFest attendees, including students, tech professionals, policymakers, and community leaders, are invited to attend and witness how the next generation is building AI for impact.
Event details:
- Monday, March 23, 2026
- 5pm to 8:30pm ET
- The Gathering Spot
- 384 Northyards Boulevard NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
About internXL
Investor, entrepreneur and philanthropist Robert F. Smith is passionate about helping students realize their full potential. Under Smith’s leadership as Founding Director and President at Fund II Foundation he has developed initiatives like internXL. internXL is an AI-driven initiative that connects emerging talent with paid internships, career-readiness training, and full-time opportunities. Through strategic employer partnerships, industry-recognized credentials, and wraparound student support, internXL is changing how students launch careers.
About Fund II Foundation
Fund II Foundation was established in 2014 for the purpose of making grants to public charities. The organization works to promote human rights, provide music education, protect the environment, and support sustainable entrepreneurship. The Foundation supports initiatives that advance freedom, opportunity, and prosperity for all people.
About HBCU AwareFest
HBCU AwareFest is the largest fundraising event for HBCUs convened through the partnership between Student Freedom Initiative (SFI) and Live Nation Urban, to create paid pathways into the live music industry for students.