Student Innovation Challenge

The Minimalist Edge AI Challenge

Transform large AI models into efficient edge intelligence. Student teams are invited to compress AI, deploy on the edge, and build practical, energy-efficient solutions.

Co-organized with the IEEE Computer Society and powered by Qualcomm.

Join the Discord Community View Competition Flyer (PDF)
2-4 students Undergraduate and graduate teams
Two tracks Software optimization or hardware deployment
$4,500 Cash prizes for top teams

Build leaner AI for the edge

As AI models become larger and more resource-intensive, the challenge is clear: how can we keep AI powerful while making it efficient enough to run directly on edge devices?

The Minimalist Edge AI Challenge gives students an opportunity to develop high-performance solutions that reduce model size, energy use, and deployment overhead. Participants will learn from industry experts, work with current edge AI tools, and present their innovations at ACM/IEEE SEC 2026 at Santa Clara University.

Choose your track

Software Optimization Track

Focus on AI algorithms, model compression, TinyML, data science, and efficient inference.

  • Compete in a virtual development environment
  • Optimize models without dedicated hardware
  • Explore lean, energy-efficient AI techniques

Hardware Deployment Track

Deploy an end-to-end solution on Qualcomm edge AI hardware and demonstrate a working prototype.

  • Build with Qualcomm Arduino UNO Q hardware
  • Work with microcontrollers, C++, and systems engineering
  • Showcase efficient AI in a real edge deployment

Qualcomm support

  • Qualcomm Arduino UNO Q development hardware for selected Hardware Track teams
  • The latest software ecosystem and development tools
  • Exclusive technical training webinars
  • Live engineering support throughout the competition

Awards and opportunities

  • $4,500 in cash prizes for top teams across both tracks
  • Complimentary IEEE Computer Society Student Memberships
  • IEEE Computer Society swag and international recognition
  • Connections with researchers and edge AI professionals

Registration and updates

Registration opens July 16, 2026

Teams should include 2-4 undergraduate or graduate students. Interdisciplinary teams are encouraged.

The registration deposit is $50 per team and is fully refunded when the team attends the event.

Join the Discord community for registration announcements, technical updates, and early notifications.

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QR code for the Minimalist Edge AI Challenge Discord community Scan or open Discord
Preview of the Minimalist Edge AI Challenge flyer

Competition flyer

View or share the official one-page flyer for the challenge.

Open Flyer (PDF)

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