Tech Forward Future: internXL’s AI Pitch Competition at AfroTech

Students from across the nation gathered to showcase groundbreaking AI-driven solutions at internXL’s AI Pitch Competition at AfroTech. This year’s competition tackled critical global challenges, with teams presenting innovative ideas in Environmental & Climate Justice, Public Interest Technology, and Black Maternal Health.

This event was a celebration of innovation, collaboration, and opportunity. Students had the chance to connect with peers, industry leaders, and our judges, gaining insights into cutting-edge AI technology and professional growth opportunities. Prizes ranged from cash awards to tickets for the AfroTech conference, making the event both impactful and rewarding for participants and attendees.

Our esteemed panel of judges brought their expertise and passion to the event, providing valuable feedback and inspiration. A heartfelt thank you to Julie Pilat, Chief Growth Officer at FYI.AI; Bob Corney, COO and Co-Founder of Clearloop; Conrad Tucker, Director at Carnegie Mellon University – Africa; and the co-founders of Birth By Us, Mercy Oladipo and Ijeoma Uche.

Behind the scenes, dedicated trainers played a pivotal role in preparing students to excel on stage. Thank you to Miranda Stanfield from MBS Tech, Donald Boone from BoxedUp, and Robbie Stanfield from Luma for mentoring and guiding the teams throughout the month-long preparation.

The competition featured six incredible teams, each pushing the boundaries of AI innovation:

• First Place: GentriGuard – our team from the University of Texas at Austin
• Second Place: Justice.AI – our team from North Carolina A&T University
• Third Place: TrustFall – our team from Texas Southern University

The internXL Team Choice Award went to VigilantBytez, students from Prairie View A&M University, who inspired us with their creativity and preparation for the pitch. While they didn’t place, they were recognized during our AfroTech U College Reception later in the week, and received Macbooks.

We also want to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of the MomaCare and CareNest teams, whose innovative AI solutions not only enriched the competition but demonstrated the creative potential of internXL’s scholars.

As our AI Innovation Challenges continue to grow, we’re excited to see what’s to come for 2025 and how we can support students around the world. Be a partner for an upcoming AI Innovation Challenge for a unique opportunity to support diverse talent, gain visibility as champions of innovation, and engage with groundbreaking ideas in technology. Email us at [email protected] to learn more.

Let’s keep building a tech forward future, together.