AI for Startups Challenge
+400 Points
Step into the dynamic world of artificial intelligence and discover how it’s reshaping startups and small businesses! Did you know AI can enhance customer service, streamline operations, and even help businesses predict future trends? In this Challenge, you’ll explore how startups can leverage AI to grow, save time, and boost customer engagement. From chatbots and automated marketing to predictive analytics and intelligent inventory management, AI solutions offer endless possibilities!
As you navigate this Challenge, you’ll develop a product, service, or marketing campaign idea addressing the big question: How can AI help startups work smarter and serve customers better?
Get ready to impress the KPMG judges. You could win big $$$!
This challenge will be available September 15 - October 19, 2025.
Skills you'll develop
- Problem Solving
- Communication
- Social Awareness
Overview
Welcome to the AI for Startups Challenge!
Get ready for this exciting Challenge, where you'll learn all about AI and startup companies. In this Challenge, you'll explore the question, How can AI help startups work smarter and serve customers better? Your task is to design an AI tool that could help a real or hypothetical startup save time, solve problems, and serve people in new ways. Share your idea in a 3-5 minute video pitch for the KPMG judges.
KnoPro How-To
Watch an overview of KnoPro before you get started.
KnoPro Overview
What's KnoPro? How does it work? What do I do? Watch the video and find out before you dig in to the Challenge.
Get to Kno the Process
Before you get started you might be wondering how this works. KnoPro Challenges are divided into five phases. These steps are designed to help you explore the problem and develop a solution. Select the + buttons to learn about each phase.
Three Approaches: Your Choice!
One important part of The KnoPro Challenges is choosing the type of solution you plan to create (in a group or solo) and ultimately pitch to the judges. Check out an example of each of your choices: a product idea, a new business concept, or a marketing campaign. You can also get inspiration from all the winning projects.
Flip the cards to help you decide which approach you may want to take. Later in the Challenge, you'll choose ONE approach.
Product Idea
Product Idea
Get creative and come up with a new product idea that addresses the problem. This might be an app, a game, or a consumer product, for example. The possibilities are endless! You’ll write a design brief to plan your product, and ultimately create a “prototype” to pitch to the judges.
Business Concept
Business Concept
Imagine a unique business idea that addresses the problem. This might be a for-profit or non-profit venture, an online platform, or an in-person experience/pop-up shop, for example. The possibilities are limitless! Write a business plan, and then create a fun way to share your business idea with the judges.
Marketing Campaign
Marketing Campaign
Design an exciting and catchy marketing campaign that addresses the problem and inspires people to act! The campaign might be a viral social media video, a series of emails, or a live event, for example. You’ll write up a marketing plan and then create some "assets" and pitch your idea to the judges.KnoPro Tools to Help You
Student KNOtebook
The Student KNOtebook is a tool to help you keep track of your research, thoughts, and ideas. While you don't have to use this optional tool, it's a helpful way to stay organized. Throughout the Challenge, keep an eye out for KNOtebook hints and suggestions to record in your KNOtebook.
To get started, make a copy of the Student KNOtebook slides or use the PDF Version.
Get Help from Mentors
Want some extra help? Real professionals, who created the Challenge, are standing by to answer your questions, hear your ideas, and give you feedback! They want to help you win the Challenge!
You might ask a question about the topic, or you might ask how you could improve your solution, or you may want to show your video pitch to them, etc.
STUDENTS: ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE!
Dive into artificial intelligence and startups as an expert!
