Deadline: January 12, 2026
The Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 is a global innovation challenge designed to advance human-centred artificial intelligence in education. Hosted by the Stanford Accelerator for Learning with support from Google.org, the challenge seeks bold, practical ideas that use AI to augment teaching, learning, and career pathways, rather than replace human interaction.
The Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 brings together educators, researchers, technologists, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and students to re-imagine how AI can be used responsibly, inclusively, and effectively in education systems worldwide.
Programme Overview
The Create+AI Challenge focuses on applying AI in ways that strengthen human potential and improve learning outcomes. Projects are expected to demonstrate how artificial intelligence can enhance educational experiences while maintaining fairness, accessibility, and ethical responsibility.
Selected teams will receive funding, mentorship, and global visibility through Stanford’s AI and education ecosystem.
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to individuals and teams from around the world, including:
- Educators
- Researchers
- Designers and technologists
- Nonprofit organisations
- Entrepreneurs and startups
- Students aged 18 years and above
⚠️ Eligibility Requirement:
At least one member of each team must have a Stanford affiliation, which includes current students, staff, scholars, or alumni. Teams may include international collaborators.
Innovation Tracks
Applicants must choose one of the following tracks:
1. Augment Teaching
AI-powered solutions that support teachers by strengthening classroom relationships, reducing administrative burden, and improving instructional effectiveness.
2. Augment Learning
AI tools that enhance learner participation and engagement, particularly for students with disabilities, learning differences, or limited access to educational resources.
3. Augment Career Opportunities
AI innovations that support career exploration, skills development, mentorship, and pathways to meaningful employment.
Funding and Benefits
The Create+AI Challenge offers significant financial and non-financial support:
- Total funding pool: USD $400,000
- Major awards: Two awards of $50,000 in each track
- Additional awards: Multiple prizes ranging from $10,000 to $20,000
- Expert mentorship and guidance from Stanford faculty, researchers, and technologists
- Visibility and recognition at the AI+Education Summit
- Potential invitation to participate in a Summer 2026 project development cohort at Stanford University
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 12 January 2026 (12:00 PM Pacific Time)
- AI+Education Summit: 10–11 February 2026
Selection Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on:
- Innovation and originality
- Potential learning and societal impact
- Fairness, inclusion, and accessibility
- Alignment with learning sciences and human-centred design
- Measurement and evaluation plan
- Feasibility, scalability, and sustainability
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit:
- A completed online application form
- A PDF proposal or pitch deck (maximum of 10 pages)
- A 2-minute introductory video
- Optional supporting materials such as a prototype, demo, or budget
What to Include in the Proposal
Your proposal document should clearly outline:
- Project title and selected innovation track
- Problem statement and target audience
- Description of the AI-based solution
- Connection to learning science principles
- Expected outcomes and impact metrics
- Fairness, ethics, and accessibility considerations
- Project timeline and milestones
- Team background and roles
- Budget overview
Why Apply
The Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 provides a unique opportunity to:
- Secure funding for AI-driven education solutions
- Access world-class mentorship and academic expertise
- Showcase your work on a global platform
- Contribute to the future of ethical and human-centred AI in education
Need Support With Your Application?
We offer professional support for proposal drafting, refining, and review to help strengthen your submission and improve your chances of success.
📩 Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
