Student Innovation Challenge

The Minimalist Edge AI Challenge invites student teams to tackle AI bloat by transforming large AI models into lean, green, high-performance machines capable of running on constrained edge hardware.


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


Date: October 13-15, 2026   |   Location: Santa Clara University


Join the Discord Community | Register through IEEE vTools | View Competition Flyer (PDF)


Challenge Highlights

2-4 students
Undergraduate and graduate teams		 Two tracks
Software optimization or hardware deployment		 Sept. 6, 2026
Team registration deadline

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?


Participating teams will deploy a complex AI workload, such as real-time multi-object tracking or environmental anomaly detection, onto low-power hardware. Teams will optimize model accuracy, model compression, resource efficiency, and energy parsimony.


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

  • Arduino UNO Q hardware kit shipped to participating teams.
  • Qualcomm trainings and technical mentoring.
  • Virtual development environment.
  • Onsite technical support.

Awards and Opportunities

  • $4,500 in total cash prizes across both tracks.
  • 1st Place: $1,000; 2nd Place: $750; 3rd Place: $500 for each track.
  • IEEE Computer Society swag.
  • Complimentary IEEE Computer Society Student Memberships.

Registration and Updates

Team registration deadline: September 6, 2026.


The official registration opened on July 16, 2026. Teams should include 2-4 undergraduate or graduate students from a recognized university.


The flyer notes a $50 per team registration fee that is 100% refundable when the team shows up at the event.


Register through IEEE vTools and join the Discord community for registration announcements, technical updates, and early notifications: https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/567789 | https://discord.gg/V29ZXCTFR5


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


Competition Flyer

View or share the official one-page flyer for the challenge: Open Flyer (PDF).


Preview of the Minimalist Edge AI Challenge flyer