aPPLY BY FEB. 4 Due to popular Demand, We've Extended Registration!

CREATE THE future powered by AI & Enter to Win a Scholarship.

you
are
right where you belong. Welcome to what’s next.

The PROPEL U Future of Tech Innovation Challenge is where HBCU students turn ideas into real-world impact using AI. Over a few weeks, you’ll work in teams of 3-5 to explore big problems, design smart solutions, and show what you’re capable of.

No coding required. It’s about using AI to think creatively, solve real issues, and present ideas that get noticed - by employers and industry leaders.

Starting

Feb 1st

Take the challenge

Take the challenge

Take the challenge
Design agency

COMPETE WITH HBCUs from all over
the country for a chance to win

HOW TO WIN

Your path
starts here

Applications extended to Feb. 4th!

Sign up and choose your challenge area. That’s it, you’re in.

Team Up

Form a team of 3–5 students only from your HBCU. All majors and classes welcome.

Learn

Complete short guided lessons on AI, storytelling, and problem-solving. No coding required.

Design

Turn your idea into a clear, creative solution that uses Apple products. Show how AI powers your concept with a video and a deck.

Submit

Upload your pitch deck and short video by February 20th. Put your work on the record. Pat your team on the back.

Earn A Certificate

Finish the challenge and earn an Applied AI & Future Work Foundations digital badge and completion certificate. Add it to your resume and LinkedIn profile.

Compete for The💰

Multiple teams will win scholarships and prizes. $125,000 awarded across winners.

$125,000 in
scholarships & Awards

Virtual Competition.
National Recognition.

The Future of Tech Innovation Challenge is a fully virtual experience. Undergraduate students from HBCUs across the country are invited to participate and compete online.

Finalist teams will have an opportunity to attend a live showcase in Austin, Texas.

Scholarship award amounts vary by school based on available sponsorships and grant funding.

See participating partner schools and scholarship ranges in the FAQ.

Change the

campus

COMMUNITY

CULTURE

Build
something

that Changes Everything

Choose one challenge area to focus your idea, or bring your own.

Cybersecurity, Energy & Climate Resilience
Design AI-powered ideas that protect systems, support clean energy, and help communities adapt and thrive.
Health Innovation
Explore how AI can support physical health, mental health, or community well-being.
EdTech, Learning Futures & Accessibility
Use AI to improve learning, teaching, and access for all kinds of learners.
Sports, Arts & Media Tech
Design AI-powered ideas for creativity, performance, storytelling, or fan experiences.
Open Challenge
Have a bold idea that doesn’t fit a box? Design any AI-powered solution solving a real-world problem.

a peek into the Application process

1

Apply by FEB. 4

Sign up and choose your challenge area. That’s it, you’re in.
2

Team up

Form a team of 3–5 students only from your HBCU. All majors and classes welcome.
3

learn

Complete short guided lessons on AI, storytelling, and problem-solving. No coding required.
4

Design

Turn your idea into a clear, creative solution that uses Apple products. Show how AI powers your concept with a video and a deck.
5

submit

Upload your pitch deck and short video by February 20th. Put your work on the record. Pat your team on the back.
The brightest minds from HBCUs, reimagining the future—together.

Apply

Now