The SXSW EDU Student Impact Challenge is a free annual competition held at SXSW EDU in Austin, Texas, recognizing high school students who are driving meaningful change in their communities. Sponsored by The Allstate Foundation, it is open to both US and international students.
How it works: Teams of high school students submit projects addressing social, economic, or environmental challenges. Six finalist teams are selected to present their work live on stage at the SXSW EDU conference in March. The judging panel has included past Student Impact Challenge winners and youth social entrepreneurs alongside an Allstate Foundation representative.
Past winners:
- 2026: Immunova AI (Singapore) — open-source AI platform for early cancer detection across 35 cancer types
- Runners-up: The Bionic Leaf (Plano, TX) and Pathways to Potential (Chandler, AZ)
Prize (finalists and winner):
- 6 complimentary SXSW EDU credentials (2 for student presenters + 4 for chaperones/team members)
- Coaching sessions with innovators and social impact business strategists
- Live stage showcase to educators, investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators
Travel and accommodation to Austin are not covered.
Application timeline (annual):
- Opens: August 5
- Closes: October 25
- Conference: March (SXSW EDU)