Intel is spearheading a new initiative to support innovation within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by leveraging the power of quantum computing and AI technologies. In partnership with Flapmax, Intel has co-launched the Quantum AI Challenge, a groundbreaking program that encourages participants to define and solve real-world optimization problems across various industries, including healthcare, energy, and supply chain management.
The Quantum AI Challenge offers HBCU students, faculty, and researchers the opportunity to work in teams to address critical issues by translating optimization problems into quantum algorithms and circuits. These teams, consisting of two to five members, will receive mentorship from global experts and access to cutting-edge resources. Selected participants will be provided with Intel AI PCs to run Python-based quantum simulations, enhanced with AI capabilities.
This initiative specifically prioritizes projects in socially impactful fields such as healthcare, education, energy, and material science. By focusing on these areas, Intel and Flapmax aim to address some of the world's most pressing challenges while empowering HBCU students and researchers to lead the way in these innovative spaces.
The winning teams will have the chance to showcase their solutions to a global audience, earning mentorship, prizes, and further recognition for their groundbreaking work. These solutions have the potential to revolutionize industries and provide sustainable improvements for communities worldwide.
This initiative is part of Intel's broader collaboration with Flapmax, a data and AI company committed to accelerating AI innovation in underserved communities. Together, they are working to provide students and researchers at HBCUs with access to state-of-the-art technology and tools, ensuring that these populations are equipped to make significant contributions to AI and quantum computing.
Flapmax CEO Dave Ojika highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating, "By partnering with Intel and HBCUs, we are providing the next generation of students and researchers with the tools and resources to explore AI and quantum computing, push the boundaries of scientific discovery, and drive meaningful impact across industries.”
Intel’s general manager of the education client division, Michael Campbell, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the company's commitment to fostering both innovation and inclusion. "AI and quantum computing represent the next frontiers in solving some of the world's most pressing challenges, and we're excited to support this initiative that empowers HBCU students to lead in this space," Campbell stated. Intel's involvement includes providing access to its advanced AI hardware and tools, enabling participants to take full advantage of cutting-edge technology as they work on their projects.
In addition to Intel’s support, participants in the Quantum AI Challenge will benefit from access to Flapmax’s FAST Accelerator. This program empowers local entrepreneurs, small businesses, and startups by offering them access to advanced technology and funding opportunities, creating a broader ecosystem of support for innovation and growth.
By combining quantum computing and AI, the Quantum AI Challenge represents a unique opportunity for HBCU students and researchers to make lasting contributions to industries and communities globally.
