Build a software prototype in one weekend at the AI Startup Jam.
October 24-26 | NextCorps
That's a wrap!
More than 40 local innovators gathered at NextCorps for the first-ever AI Startup Jam—a fast-paced weekend challenge to build AI-powered software prototypes from scratch. Congratulations to the winners and everyone who took part!
The winners
🏆 1st Place ($1,000 + one year NextCorps incubation services):
Kyla Brown with Closet OS, an AI-powered digital styling app
🥈 2nd Place ($500):
Manasvi Patwa with ReSpeak, a speech practice companion accelerating the recovery of stroke victims
🥉 3rd Place ($250):
Jack Heltzel with Nest Egg, an approachable way for younger people to manage their finances
The Jam experience
ABOUT THE JAM
Turn your idea into a software startup, fast—no technical experience required.
Have an idea for a new software startup? Bring it to life from Friday to Sunday! At the AI Startup Jam, you’ll learn how to use AI tools to rapidly create a prototype of your software product—no coding involved, and no AI skills or technical experience needed. Finish the weekend strong with the opportunity to pitch and compete for cash prizes and in-kind services.
The AI Startup Jam is limited to 75 people. Individuals or teams of up to three can apply for free. If accepted, participation is $25 per person, which covers meals all weekend.
Applications are Closed!
We hope to see you in the future. Sign up to receive notifications on new events and ways to get involved.
Participant Qualifications
To apply, you must be:
- 18 or older
- A resident of Western New York*
- Available for the full weekend (Friday evening, October 24 – early evening Sunday, October 26)
- Able to bring and use a laptop
- Starting fresh with a new idea for a software offering (no pre-built software products allowed)
*Western New York counties include Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates, Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, and Niagara.
AI Jam Agenda
October 24-26
FRIDAY
Launch & Learn
5:00-9:30 PM
Check-In, Dinner, & Mingling
Kickoff / Jam Intro
AI Tools Workshop
(Optional) Idea Huddle & Team Formation
SATURDAY
Build Day
8:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Light Breakfast & Check-In
Build Sprint #1
Lunch Break
Stripe, APIs, & Beyond Workshop
Build Sprint #2
Dinner
Optional Night Build
SUNDAY
Finish & Showcase
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Light Breakfast & Check-In
Build Sprint #3
Lunch Break
Prototype Submission
Startup Showcase
Judging
Awards & Recognition
Review the Info Session
Learn more about the Jam by accessing the recording of the September 24 info session with Matt Foley and JJ Englert.
Don’t Miss What’s Next
Applications for the AI Startup Jam have closed, but there’s more innovation ahead. Sign up to hear about upcoming events and programs.
NextCorps’ AI Startup Jam is made possible through the Springboard Prize Competition, supported by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation.