About This Opportunity

IBM, in partnership with BeMyApp, has launched the AI Builders Challenge with IBM Bob — a global program for university students to build real-world AI solutions using IBM technologies. Running July through August 2026, the Challenge features monthly innovation challenges: Creative Industries (July), Space Exploration (August), and a Wildcard Challenge on Intelligent Systems for the Future of Work.

This is a genuine chance to develop practical, in-demand AI skills — not just theory — while building a portfolio project that shows employers you're ready for an AI-driven economy.

Eligibility Requirements

  • University students, 18 years of age or older
  • Enrolled at any institution of higher education (university, college, community college, technical or vocational school)
  • Open to students from all majors — not just computer science
  • Team size: 1–5 participants, solo participation also allowed

What You Get

  • Compete for a share of the $15,000 USD total prize pool, including a $5,000 Grand Prize for the top project across the Challenge
  • Hands-on learning through IBM SkillsBuild and the IBM Bob Virtual Conference
  • Access to mentors, office hours, and webinars during the Challenge period
  • Recognition from IBM for top teams, plus the opportunity to showcase your work
  • A public GitHub portfolio project you can show future employers

How to Apply

  • Visit aibuilderschallenge-bob.bemyapp.com to register
  • Complete IBM SkillsBuild learning content and the guided baseline notebook
  • Build your project using at least one IBM AI-supported technology (e.g. Granite, LangFlow, Docling)
  • Submit a public GitHub repository with a functioning prototype through the challenge platform

    • Tips

  • You don't need a computer science degree — this is open to all majors. If you're curious about AI, this is a low-risk way to build real skills.
  • Team up if you can — teams of up to 5 are allowed, and combining skills (design, data, writing) often produces stronger submissions than solo work.
  • Use it for your CV immediately — a public GitHub project with a working AI prototype is a strong, concrete talking point in job and scholarship applications.

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    📅 Challenges run monthly through August 2026 — register now to join the current cycle.

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