The AI NextGen Challenge 2026, launched by the United States Artificial Intelligence Institute (USAII®), is a national initiative designed to empower students across America with world-class AI education, industry-recognized certifications, and a platform to showcase innovation.

This program is designed for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students and brings together AI learning, scholarships, and a large-scale national hackathon in one of the country’s most impactful AI talent development programs.

Students begin their journey through an online AI Scholarship Test, where the top 10% earn 100% scholarships for USAII®’s prestigious AI certification programs, such as CAIP™, CAIPa™, and CAIE™. These programs cover AI fundamentals, machine learning, deep learning, robotics, generative AI, LLMs, MLOps, and real-world AI applications. All other students can also participate with exclusive discounted access, ensuring inclusivity and opportunity for all.

The highlight of the initiative is the AI NextGen National Hackathon 2026, to be held in Atlanta, Georgia, where the nation’s top 125 student innovators—organized into 25 teams—will compete to solve real-world problems using AI. With $100,000 in total cash prizes, national recognition, and networking with industry leaders, the event serves as a launchpad for America’s future AI workforce.