Overview
The ML Empowerment Build Challenge 3.0 is an online global program for students to learn artificial intelligence and apply it to real-world projects. Rather than focusing only on a short hackathon sprint, the challenge combines structured learning, hands-on building, and mentorship. It is designed for both beginners and students with prior AI experience, supporting participants as they develop ideas into practical projects with positive social impact.
The challenge is open to students aged 13 and older. Companies and professional organizations cannot participate. Participants may be from any country or territory except the listed standard exceptions: Brazil, Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Quebec, and Russia. Solo submissions are allowed, as are teams.
Learning program
Participants can use a free, beginner-friendly curriculum developed by the ML Empowerment Foundation. The self-paced program has 12 lessons covering AI fundamentals, machine learning, data and algorithms, neural networks, large language models, multimodal AI, prompt engineering, and the ethical implications and future impact of AI. The curriculum is described as interactive and accessible, and is intended to help students progress from foundational concepts to practical experimentation.
Project building and submission
After learning the fundamentals, participants create an AI project. Eligible project ideas include AI-powered applications, chatbots or assistants, tools addressing real-world problems, and creative or experimental AI projects. The organizers say they will collaborate with sponsors and partner organizations to provide opportunities to explore AI tools, platforms, and APIs.
Projects should address a real-world problem or contribute positive social impact. Submissions may take forms such as web or mobile applications, AI tools, games, or productivity tools. Each Devpost entry should include a project title and a description explaining the problem, solution, key features, technologies, and intended users. Participants must also upload at least one file demonstrating the project’s functionality or design. For beginners, a prototype, wireframe, or mockup is acceptable. A code repository and live demo link are optional but recommended. Teams should list their members and roles.
Judging and awards
Projects are evaluated on technical implementation (30%), creativity and innovation (20%), real-world impact (20%), project design and user experience (15%), and presentation and documentation (15%). The page lists awards for first place, the top 10 finalists, and participant gifts. First place includes one year of Mobbin Pro, $2,000 in Momen credits, and a certificate. The other finalists receive one year of Mobbin Pro and certificates. Participant gifts include Momen, Featherless AI, Mobbin Pro, and Backboard credits, as well as certificates. The page headline advertises $80,000 in prizes, while the detailed prize listings describe these non-cash awards and credits.
Dates and format
The event is online. The listed event period begins September 5, 2026, and ends October 6, 2026. The submission deadline is October 5, 2026 at 11:45 p.m. PDT. The page does not provide a timed session agenda or named speakers. Questions can be sent to the hackathon manager at mlempowerfdn@gmail.com.
