AI Futures
AI Futures Challenge
Our AI Futures Challenge is a unique hands-on and collaborative industry-connected experience, solving real-world problems using AI, whilst considering business, ethical, technical and social dimensions. All with the support of university and business specialists.
It is a fantastic opportunity to:
- solve an industry-led business challenge with AI, supported by specialists
- develop practical skills, networks and digital credentials to gain a competitive edge in university applications
- learn how different disciplines work together to create better solutions
- win a £1,000 scholarship
What is it
A five-day online innovation challenge for Year 12 students, enabling students to gain experience of working on a real-life business challenge set by one of our start-up hub businesses.
Participants work individually or in teams of 2-3 to address a business-sponsored challenge using AI, receiving academic support and feedback.
The challenge culminates in a project submission which can be in one of the following formats:
- portfolio of work
- video or recorded presentation
- presentation with notes
Who can enter
Students in their penultimate year of secondary education (equivalent to Year 12 in the UK). You can enter the challenge as a team or individually. If you’re planning on entering as a team, all members of the group should register their interest using the form below.
When is it
The challenge takes place from 16th-20th February 2026. The challenge spans five days, but you have complete flexibility in how much time you dedicate to your project. This isn’t an intensive, back-to-back programme – you can work at your own pace and fit the challenge around your other commitments.
Before the challenge week begins, you’ll receive a few hours of optional online pre-work covering how to use AI and other focus areas that will help you prepare.
During the 5 days:
- the challenge will be released on Monday 16th February 2026
- drop-ins with academic faculty (different times to suit various time zones)
- projects submitted on Friday 20th February 2026
Whether you have a few hours or can dedicate more focused time, the challenge is designed to be flexible and rewarding at any level of engagement.
Why should I participate
Our five-day challenge is a fantastic opportunity to:
- solve an industry-led business challenge with AI, supported by specialists
- develop practical skills, networks and digital credentials to gain a competitive edge in university applications
- learn how different disciplines work together to create better solutions
- win a £1,000 scholarship
What will I gain?
As well as the knowledge and practical skills participating will provide, all participants will receive:
- digital certificates of participation
- LinkedIn credentials badge
- access to an exclusive online event after challenge has taken place
Shortlisted projects will receive:
- a £1,000 scholarship to be used on first-year tuition fees at Northeastern University London
- team feedback from the panel of judges
- category excellence awards awarded for submissions that demonstrate high levels of innovation, sustainability or collaboration
How do I enter
Please register your interest in taking part using this form.
We will then be in touch ahead of the challenge starting to take your, or your team’s registration.
Register here
Northeastern University London is a charity
registered with the Charity Commission for
England and Wales (charity number 1189858).
Location
Devon House
58 St Katharine’s Way
London E1W 1LP, UK
+44 20 7637 4550
Northeastern University London is part of a global system, linking 13 campuses across the U.K., U.S., and Canada. Learn more about how our network serves as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.
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