AI Hackathon 2026

Where Students Build the Future with AI

The USAII’s Global AI Hackathon 2026 is a premier, fully virtual competition exclusively for High School (grades 9–12), Undergraduate, Graduate and Doctoral students worldwide. Scheduled for June 2026, this global hackathon challenges students to design, build, and present real-world AI solutions to meaningful problems.

Participants collaborate across borders, apply responsible AI principles, and showcase their work to experienced judges. With structured tracks, curated resources, and mentor guidance, the hackathon ensures a fair, inclusive, and high-impact experience.

Compete for cash prizes, scholarships, and global recognition—and take your first step toward becoming a future AI leader.

No prior AI or hackathon experience required — just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Format

Virtual/ Online

Key Dates

High School

June 20 - 21, 2026

COLLEGE/ GRADS/ DOCTORAL

June 14 - 21, 2026

Who Can Participate?

Exclusively open to students worldwide who are currently enrolled in High Schools and Colleges

Eligible participants include:

  • High School Students: Students currently enrolled in Grades 9 to 12
  • Undergraduate Students: Students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent program
  • Graduate Students: Students enrolled in Master’s and Doctoral programs

Individual or Team Participation:

  • Students can register solo or as a team. They may participate as part of a team of (2) up to five (5) members.
  • Team members must belong to the same eligibility category (High School or College/Graduate and Doctoral).

Why Participate?

The future belongs to curious minds who learn, build, collaborate, and create responsible AI solutions that make a meaningful impact.

  • Solve Real-World Problems with AI: Apply AI to meaningful challenges beyond classrooms and textbooks.
  • Compete on a Global Stage: Collaborate and compete with students from around the world.
  • Strengthen College & Career Profiles: Showcase projects that stand out in college applications and job interviews.
  • Build Future-Ready Skills: Strengthen problem-solving, teamwork, and responsible AI skills.
  • Gain Global Recognition: Earn certificates, digital badges, and visibility on many platforms.
  • Win Cash Prizes & Scholarships: Compete for a US $15,000+ prize pool and USAII’s AI certification scholarships.

Prizes and Recognition

Compete for cash prizes, global recognition, and career visibility.

Total Prize Pool
US $15,000+
  • High School (Grades 9–12): US $6,000
  • College / Graduate: US $9,000
  • Best Design
  • Best Technical
  • Best Pitch
  • More awards coming soon!

All prize-winning teams will also receive scholarships for globally recognized USAII® AI certifications.

Additional prize categories and scholarship details will be announced soon.

Rules & Guidelines

Global AI Hackathon 2026

  • This is a virtual-first hackathon designed to be flexible for students balancing school and other commitments.
  • Students work in small teams to design and build an AI-powered solution to a real-world challenge.
  • You’ll collaborate virtually, receive guidance from mentors, and present your project to judges at the end of the event.
  • This is a learning experience — asking questions and experimenting is encouraged.
  • Projects are evaluated based on creativity, clarity of problem-solving, responsible use of AI, and teamwork — not on technical perfection.
  • Clear judging criteria will be shared before submissions.
  • After the event, students receive recognition for participation, award announcements, and next-step opportunities such as certifications, showcases, or future programs.
  • Details Coming Soon!

Our
Speakers

To be Announced (TBA)

Book Speaker Slot 

Our Partners

CISC
GLOXAD
Mercer
The Bar-Ilan University

Collaborative Sponsors

The USAII’s Global AI Hackathon 2026 is supported by forward-thinking organizations committed to responsible AI, workforce readiness, and student innovation.

Our collaborative sponsors are not just supporters — they are active contributors helping shape how the next generation of students learn, build, and apply AI.

ETA

ETA supports entrepreneurship through acquisition and next-generation business leadership.

Their commitment to innovation, ownership, and real-world business building aligns with the hackathon’s mission to prepare students for applied AI in business and industry.

Through their support, ETA helps connect emerging AI talent with practical pathways into entrepreneurship and economic impact.

https://www.joineta.org
The Innovate

The Innovate Summit brings together founders, technologists, and thought leaders to advance innovation across industries.

Their support of the USAII NextGen AI Hackathon reinforces a shared commitment to empowering students with access to transformative ideas, mentorship, and real-world innovation ecosystems.

Innovate Summit strengthens the bridge between student builders and the broader innovation community.

https://theinnovatesummit.com
Now Sourcing

NowSourcing is a leading digital media and data storytelling firm known for translating complex topics into accessible, visual insights.

Their support of the hackathon underscores the importance of clear communication, responsible AI narratives, and data literacy in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

NowSourcing helps amplify the visibility and impact of student innovation.

https://nowsourcing.com

Sponsorship
Opportunities

Organizations and universities are invited to partner with USAII® to:
  • Support AI education and workforce readiness
  • Fund scholarships for global students
  • Engage directly with future AI talent
  • Align with the National AI Strategy 2024, NSF AI priorities, and U.S. STEM goals
  • Gain national CSR visibility and branding impact
Join As A Sponsor 

FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS

Exact dates, challenge details, and workshop schedule will be announced soon. Register early to receive updates, team-matching support, and prep resources.

  • High School (Grades 9–12): 2-day structured sprint
  • College, Graduate & Doctoral: 1-week deep build experience (may separate into separate tracks)

  • Build a real AI project, not just learn theory
  • Collaborate with students beyond your school
  • Strengthen your resume, portfolio, or college applications
  • Explore AI in a supportive, structured environment
  • Be part of a globally-recognized challenge

  • You can register solo or with a team.
  • Teams typically include 2–5 students, and support will be provided to help solo participants find teammates.
  • Teams may include students from different schools or countries.
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