This fall, Atlanta students will have the chance to shape the city’s World Cup legacy.
The Atlanta Innovation Cup, launching in October 2025, will bring together undergraduate and graduate students from across Georgia’s colleges and universities to form interdisciplinary teams. Over the course of one week, teams will compete virtually, then present their big ideas during a live showcase on October 16, 2025.
The challenge: imagine bold, creative ways to make Atlanta unforgettable as the world arrives for the FIFA World Cup in 2026. Teams will explore how to level up fan fun, elevate community spirit, and create a lasting city impact.
Participants will work with mentors from the U.S. Soccer Federation, Deloitte, the City of Atlanta, and industry leaders while building portfolio-ready projects and career-shaping connections.
How It Works
- Who can apply: All undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in Georgia colleges and universities. No coding experience required.
- Team formation: Multidisciplinary teams will be curated with ACT House, a global platform for team formation and startup creation.
- Timeline:
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- Applications Open: September 5–17, 2025
- Virtual Competition: October 6–15, 2025
- In-Person Showcase: October 16, 2025
Awards & Recognition
Prizes include exclusive mentorship, funding to further develop ideas, and recognition during the closing ceremony. Categories include:
- 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place
- Best UX Design
- People’s Choice Award
Winning ideas may receive seed funding and mentorship to bring concepts to life in time for Summer 2026.
Save the Date
Applications: September 5–17, 2025
Virtual Competition: October 6–15, 2025
Showcase & Final Pitch: October 16, 2025
Atlanta’s Innovation Cup is where students’ creativity meets global opportunity — and it all begins this October. Visit https://atlinnovationcup.softr.app/ to learn more.
