As a university dedicated to advancing innovative technologies for good, Arizona State University recognizes the remarkable potential of generative and multimodal artificial intelligence to enhance teaching and learning outcomes for learners of all ages and backgrounds.
The Spark Center for Innovation in Learning (SCIL), founded in partnership with retired U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema, and its flagship Global AI Competition, will draw expertise from across the ASU enterprise, including translational science, education, public health and venture development to accelerate breakthroughs in AI-driven technologies that support neurodivergent individuals throughout their educational journeys, from pre-K to high school to higher education and as they prepare to enter the workforce. The SCIL will forge interdisciplinary partnerships to drive innovation that shape the future of learning.
A note from Kyrsten
Few people know that I started my career in public education. My first job after college was a social worker for a Title 1 school in the Sunnyslope neighborhood of Phoenix. In that role I saw remarkably bright children fall behind in school because they think and work differently. What I witnessed then has only grown since: there is a treasure trove of untapped potential in neurodivergent learners across the world.
The Spark Center for Innovation in Learning (SCIL) will bring together educators, students, the tech industry and the most innovative university in the country to create the next generation of learning tools – tapping the potential of neurodivergent thinkers across the globe.
It will foster new technology that will support neurodiverse learners at every age – ensuring every learner has the tools they need to become the leaders of tomorrow.
It is my great honor to help found the Spark Center and I hope you will join us in the research and discovery to come.
Forks Up!
Kyrsten
Global AI Competition
The Spark Center for Innovation in Learning (SCIL) Global AI Challenge, is a global opportunity to accelerate AI-enabled solutions that empower neurodivergent learners.
Hosted by the ASU Spark Center for Innovation in Learning (SCIL) in collaboration with OpenAI and ASU's J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute, this challenge identifies and supports the most promising ventures at the intersection of AI, education, and inclusion. The Global AI Challenge features two distinct tracks, ensuring innovators at every stage of growth can gain tailored support, access to global networks, and a platform to showcase transformative solutions.
- Emerging Track for pre-seed and seed founders
- Growth Track for Series A+ ventures
Applications for the 2025-2026 cycle have closed.
Winners will be announced at ASU+GSV 2026!