The Create+AI Challenge, hosted by the Stanford Accelerator for Learning with support from Google.org, is a global call for projects that move beyond simple automation. The challenge focuses on “human-centered AI”—tools designed to expand human potential, agency, and social connection. By putting educators and learners at the heart of the design process, the program seeks to advance learning, well-being, and opportunity for all.
Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 Summary Table
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deadline | January 12, 2026 |
| Total Funding | $400,000 |
| Summit Date | February 10–11, 2026 |
| Eligibility | Teams with $\geq$1 Stanford-affiliated member |
| Primary Tracks | Augment Teaching, Learning, & Career Opportunities |
Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 Details
The Create+AI Challenge is designed to shift the narrative of AI in education from automation to augmentation. Hosted by the Stanford Accelerator for Learning, the initiative seeks to surface innovative projects that prioritize human interaction and social-emotional growth.
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Participants are encouraged to leverage learning sciences and design principles to create tools that solve real-world “pain points” for teachers, foster participation for learners with disabilities, and build pathways to meaningful careers.
Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 Benefits
- Substantial Funding: $400,000 in total awards. This includes two $50,000 awards for each of the three tracks, plus various $10,000–$20,000 grants.
- Expert Mentorship: Direct access to Stanford faculty, researchers, and technologists.
- Co-Design Workshops: Participation in learning science and teacher co-design sessions to refine your tool.
- High-Level Visibility: Opportunity to present at the AI+Education Summit (February 10–11, 2026).
- Development Pathway: Potential invitation to join a dedicated project development cohort at Stanford in Summer 2026.
Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 Selection Criteria
- Innovation & Creativity: Novelty of the approach and potential to redefine educational tools.
- Learning Impact: Evidence-based potential to improve educational outcomes and human agency.
- Fairness & Inclusion: A strong focus on diverse, underserved populations and accessibility.
- Learning Sciences: Proper application of research-backed design and pedagogical principles.
- Measurement & Feasibility: A clear plan for evaluation, scalability, and long-term sustainability.
How to Apply for the Stanford Accelerator for Learning Create+AI Challenge 2026 ( Step-by-Step)
Phase 1: Team Formation & Eligibility
- Stanford Affiliation: Ensure at least one member is a current student, scholar, staff member, or alum.
- Age Requirement: All applicants must be 18 years or older.
- Participation Limit: Individuals may only participate on one team.
Phase 2: Developing the Proposal (Max 10 Pages)
Your PDF proposal should cover:
- Idea & Problem: A summary of the solution and the specific target audience.
- AI Integration: How AI is used to augment (not just automate) the human experience.
- Science & Design: Connection to learning science principles.
- Outcomes: How you will measure success and impact.
- Ethics: Fairness, inclusion, and accessibility considerations.
- Team & Budget: Bios and a breakdown of how the funds will be used.
Phase 3: Multimedia & Submission
- Introduction Video: A mandatory two-minute video introducing the team and concept.
- Optional Extras: Prototypes, demos, or a detailed financial model.
- Online Form: Submit all materials via the official Google Form by January 12, 2026.
Application Deadline: January 12th 2026
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Does every team member need to be from Stanford? No. Only one team member must hold a Stanford affiliation (student, scholar, staff, or alum). Other members can be from anywhere in the world.
2. Can I apply to more than one track? No. Applicants must select a single primary track that best fits their project’s core focus.
3. What does “augmenting” mean in this context? Augmentation refers to AI that enhances human capabilities, social relationships, and agency, rather than simply replacing human tasks with automation.
4. Are international applicants allowed? Yes, teams can include international members, provided they comply with U.S. sanctions and export-control restrictions.
5. What is the format for the proposal? The proposal must be a PDF or pitch deck with a maximum length of 10 pages.
6. Is a working prototype required at the time of application? No. A prototype or demo is optional but recommended to help demonstrate feasibility.
7. Can I be on multiple teams? No. Individuals are restricted to participating on only one team for this challenge.
8. When will the winners be announced? Visibility for projects occurs at the AI+Education Summit on February 10–11, 2026, where awards are typically highlighted.
9. Can Stanford employees use university resources for their entry? Stanford employees must ensure their participation complies with university policies regarding outside activities and the use of university resources.
10. What happens if I am invited to the Summer 2026 cohort? Selected teams may receive an invitation to continue their project development at Stanford over the summer, gaining further access to resources and expertise.
