Arizona State University's Spark Center for Innovation in Learning and Enterprise Technology are hosting the 2026 North American AI Challenge for Neurodiverse Learning!
Last year, SMCC's team, Salutogenic AI, took second place in ASU's Arizona AI Challenge and won $3,000!
WHAT IS IT?
Teams will research, design, prototype, and pitch an AI-powered solution that supports the executive function needs of neurodivergent young adults, including people navigating autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and related cognitive differences. Executive function refers to the mental skills we use to plan, focus, and manage tasks. Teams will work with a vetted organization that serves neurodivergent individuals to ground their ideas in real user needs.
YOU DO NOT NEED TO BE AN EXPERT CODER
This is an interdisciplinary challenge, and strong teams need a variety of skills. Health students and business students are especially encouraged to participate. Team roles include:
• AI Ethicist / Product Strategist
• Creative / UI-UX Designer
• Developer / Technical
• Entrepreneur / Business
• Neurodiversity Advocate / Researcher
PRIZES: $22,500 IN TOTAL
• Gold: $5,000 in scholarships divided evenly among team members, plus $10,000 in seed funding for your idea)
• Silver: $5,000 in scholarships, divided evenly among team members
• Bronze: $2,500 in scholarships, divided evenly among team members
You will also receive mentorship and technical support, and the top team may gain a pathway into ASU's Global AI Challenge and year-long venture support.
HOW TO APPLY
Teams have 3 to 5 currently enrolled college students, and every student submits their own individual application by Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
Apply here: Online Competition Application Form
• Already have a team? Each member submits an application.
• Don't have a team yet? You can still apply on your own, and the challenge organizers will help place you on a team.
• You can also connect with fellow students to learn more or find a team on Discord: SMCC AI Competition Discord Channel
IMPORTANT DATES
• Application deadline: Wednesday, October 7
• Acceptance notifications: Friday, October 9
• Virtual kickoff: Saturday, October 24
• Design sprint: October 25 to November 6
• Semifinals - Arizona regional Launchpad Pitch event (in person, Tempe): Friday, November 6
• Grand finale in Phoenix: Saturday, November 21
Please plan for the time commitment during the two-week design sprint, and note that the Launchpad pitch on November 6 is in person.
Learn more: ASU North American AI Challenge