The ML Empowerment Build Challenge is a global initiative designed to help students learn artificial intelligence and apply it to real-world projects. Unlike traditional hackathons, this challenge combines structured learning, hands-on building, and mentorship to guide participants from beginner concepts to fully developed AI solutions. Whether you're new to AI or already have experience, this program provides the resources and support to help you turn ideas into impactful projects.
To support all participants, we provide a free, beginner-friendly AI curriculum developed by the ML Empowerment Foundation. This 12-lesson, self-paced program helps students understand and explore artificial intelligence step by step. You will learn the fundamentals of AI and how it works, key concepts like machine learning, data, and algorithms, neural networks and modern tools like large language models and multimodal AI, practical skills such as prompt engineering, and the ethical implications and future impact of AI.
After learning the fundamentals, participants will apply their knowledge by creating a project using AI. You can build AI-powered applications, chatbots or assistants, tools that solve real-world problems, or creative and experimental AI projects. We collaborate with sponsors and partner organizations to give participants the opportunity to try and learn different AI tools, platforms, and APIs, allowing for more hands-on experience and exposure to real-world technologies.
Requirements Build a project that addresses a real-world problem or contributes positive social impact. Your project can take any form — a web application, mobile app, AI tool, game, productivity tool, or any innovative idea that makes a difference. Each team must submit the following on Devpost: - Project Title: A clear and memorable name. - Project Description: A detailed description covering the problem statement, solution overview, key features, technologies used, and target users. - Project Files: Screenshots, videos, or other files demonstrating functionality or design (at least one file required). - Project Link / Repository: A GitHub, GitLab, or similar repository link if available; a live demo link is recommended for web or mobile apps. - Team Details: List all team members and their roles. Solo submissions are allowed.
Judging Criteria Projects are evaluated based on: - Technical Implementation (30%) - Creativity & Innovation (20%) - Real-World Impact (20%) - Project Design & User Experience (15%) - Presentation & Documentation (15%)
Prizes are awarded to the top 10 projects.