ML Empowerment Build Challenge 3.0

Overview

The ML Empowerment Build Challenge 3.0 is a global initiative designed to help students learn artificial intelligence and apply it to real-world projects. This challenge combines structured learning, hands-on building, and mentorship to guide participants from beginner concepts to fully developed AI solutions. It aims to make AI education accessible, practical, and impactful, empowering students around the world to not only learn AI but use it to create meaningful solutions. Participants are provided with a free, beginner-friendly AI curriculum developed by the ML Empowerment Foundation. This 12-lesson, self-paced program covers fundamentals of AI, machine learning, data, algorithms, neural networks, modern tools like large language models, prompt engineering, and the ethical implications of AI. The curriculum is designed to be simple, interactive, and accessible for anyone starting with AI. After completing the learning phase, participants apply their knowledge by creating a project using AI. Projects can include AI-powered applications, chatbots, tools addressing real-world problems, or creative/experimental AI projects. The challenge also facilitates collaboration with sponsors and partner organizations, offering participants opportunities to explore different AI tools, platforms, and APIs for hands-on experience. The challenge culminates in project submissions which are evaluated based on technical implementation, creativity, real-world impact, project design, and presentation. The initiative aims to foster innovation and practical application of AI among students globally.

What to build

Participants are to build a project using AI that addresses a real-world problem or contributes positive social impact. Projects can take any form, including web applications, mobile apps, AI tools, games, productivity tools, chatbots, assistants, or creative/experimental AI projects.

Prizes

Key dates

• Judging announcement2026-09-21
• Deadline2026-09-30 23:45 PDT

Eligibility

Participants must be above the legal age of majority in their country of residence. Only students are eligible; companies and professional organizations are excluded from participation. All countries/territories are eligible, excluding standard exceptions.

How to enter

1. Access the free AI curriculum provided by the ML Empowerment Foundation.
2. Learn AI fundamentals through the 12-lesson self-paced program.
3. Apply acquired knowledge to create a project using AI that addresses a real-world problem or contributes positive social impact.
4. Submit the project on Devpost by the deadline.

Submission requirements

• Build a project that addresses a real-world problem or contributes positive social impact.
• Project can be a web application, mobile app, AI tool, game, productivity tool, or any innovative idea that makes a difference.
• Submit a Project Title.
• Include a detailed Project Description covering: Problem Statement, Solution Overview, Key Features, Technologies Used, and Target Users.
• Upload Project Files (screenshots, videos, or other files demonstrating the project, with at least one showing functionality or design).
• Provide a Project Link / Repository (optional but recommended, e.g., GitHub, GitLab; live demo link if applicable).
• List all team members and their roles (solo submissions are allowed).

Judging criteria

• Technical Implementation (30%)
• Creativity & Innovation (20%)
• Real-World Impact (20%)
• Project Design & User Experience (15%)
• Presentation & Documentation (15%)

Sponsors & partners

Resources

• ML Empowerment Foundation Curriculum