Aging Well AI Challenge

Aging is lifelong. Resilience should be too.​​​

a group of people gathered around an older couple

The Aging Well AI Challenge is a curated AI design challenge focused on supporting the aging process across the lifespan—from building healthy habits early, to midlife prevention, to thriving later in life. Teams submit ideas in advance; selected finalists present live during an evening showcase with speakers, sponsor spotlights, and Promptathon games.

Quick Details

  • Final Showcase: Friday, April 10, 2026 | 5:00–9:00 PM (Afternoon start)
  • Location: Rm 124, College of Health Professions, University of Detroit Mercy (4001 W McNichols Rd, Detroit 48221)
  • Submission Deadline: March 30, 2026
  • Contact: CAI@udmercy.edu | cai.udmercy.edu

Overview

Aging is not a stage of life—it’s a lifelong process. This challenge invites students and community innovators to design responsible AI concepts that strengthen wellbeing, resilience, independence, and connection for people at every age.

Finalists will pitch live at the April 10 showcase hosted by the Center for Augmenting Intelligence.

Key Features

  • Design challenge format (not a hackathon): Submit ahead of time; finalists are selected to present live.
  • Real-world focus: Ideas must be practical, people-centered, and ready to prototype or pilot.
  • Showcase experience: Evening final with speakers, sponsor remarks, and Promptathon games.
  • Responsible AI expectations: Clear boundaries, accessible design, and safe, supportive use cases.
  • Pathway to development: Winning concepts may be considered for post-event prototype support with partners/sponsors

Benefits

  • Build a portfolio-ready concept with a clear problem statement, user story, and implementation plan.
  • Get feedback from judges and mentors (design, health/wellness, and technology perspectives).
  • Present to sponsors and partners who can help fund or pilot strong ideas.
  • Create impact locally with solutions that support healthier living across Detroit communities and beyond.

Participation & Program Details

  • Students (all majors)
  • Designers, developers, data/AI builders
  • Healthcare, public health, and community advocates
  • Entrepreneurs and aspiring founders
    (Teams or individuals welcome.)

Submit a simple package:

  • 1-page concept brief (problem, user, solution, impact, risks/guardrails)
  • 3-slide pitch deck (Problem → Solution → Impact)
  • Optional: mockups, clickable prototype, or a short demo video
  • Grand Prize (Best Overall)
  • Best Lifespan Impact
  • Best Health & Wellness Concept
  • Best Accessibility-First Design
  • Best Responsible AI & Safety
  • People’s Choice Award

Afternoon start: check-in + networking + speakers + sponsor spotlights + Promptathon games
5:00–9:00 PM Final Showcase: finalist pitches + featured speaker + Promptathon stage games + awards

Sponsors help power:

  • the finalist showcase experience (program, speakers, production)
  • prizes and awards
  • optional post-event development support for winning projects

 

Interested in sponsoring? Email: CAI@udmercy.edu

Get Involved

Submit by March 30, 2026 to be considered for finalist selection.
Email: CAI@udmercy.edu | Website: cai.udmercy.edu

Project Type

AI Design Challenge + Showcase

Goal / Objective

Advance responsible AI concepts that support lifelong wellbeing and resilience

Project Timeline

Submissions due March 30, 2026 | Final Showcase April 10, 2026

Location

Rm 124, College of Health Professions

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