The HBCU Smart Cities Challenge
THE FUTURE IS HERE,
AND IT'S BUILT BY US.
The HBCU Smart Cities Challenge is an inaugural initiative that encourages HBCU developers, entrepreneurs, designers, and engineers to develop tech solutions that leverage ICT and IoT technology. Unlike traditional programs, we operate on a "borderless model," which allows students to connect and form teams based on interest rather than geographic location.
The challenge runs for five months, during which students develop a proof of concept or MVP (Minimum Viable Product) to address problems submitted by participating cities.
What it is
A structured program pairing city needs with HBCU teams to design, prototype, and test solutions complete with guidance, tooling, and reporting support.
Who it's for
Cities, counties, campus teams, and corporate collaborators committed to inclusive innovation and tangible outcomes.
What you get
Dedicated fellow team + mentor support
OUR FELLOWS, OUR IMPACT.
The true measure of our program is in the solutions our fellows build. See how students are tackling real-world urban challenges and creating tangible change in their communities.
Pipe Census
Pipe Census leverages vision-based AI and industry software APIs to automate the identification, mapping, and classification of underground water infrastructure, transforming a manual, time-consuming process into an efficient digital solution.
PYRA
PYRA creates an intelligent, centralized planning platform that integrates fire safety data with city development information through ESRI-compatible dashboards and AI-driven analytics for smarter resource allocation.
Smart City
Smart City implements IoT sensors and data analytics to monitor urban infrastructure, optimize energy consumption, and improve sustainability across city operations through real-time insights and predictive maintenance.
Urban Transit
Urban Transit optimizes public transportation routes using machine learning algorithms and real-time traffic data, reducing commute times and improving accessibility for underserved communities across metropolitan areas.
ConnectED
ConnectED bridges the digital divide by providing affordable internet access and digital literacy training to low-income neighborhoods, empowering communities through technology education and connectivity solutions.
Green Grid
Green Grid develops renewable energy microgrids for urban neighborhoods, integrating solar panels and battery storage to create resilient, sustainable power systems that reduce carbon emissions and energy costs.
QUOTES FROM CITY PARTNERS
"I had the privilege of working with Pathway Community Foundation
over a couple of months, and every meeting with them was amazing. We
would talk about the challenges, the technology, the people and
process of our communities, and their ideas and execution never
ceased to amaze me.
The opportunity to work with these bright minds has been a great
experience for myself and our city."
Tom Kurecka
Chief Information Officer, City of Winston-Salem
“I was just blown away by what they were able to accomplish. I didn’t know what type of solution that they were going to provide. I was amazed to see that there was something that could actually be utilized at the ond of this project and program.”
Shantell McClam
Neighborhood Services Director for the City of Wiinston-Salem
"Myself and my staff really enjoyed being a part of the program this year. It was truly unreal. Those students are so creative. I’m looking forward to working with them again next year. "
Darvin Moore
Fire Dept. Chief for City of Rocky Mount
"As the council person for District 1 in the City of Tuskegee, which represents Tuskegee University, as the Council liaison for the HBCU Smart Cities Challenge, as a Tuskegee native, and as a Tuskegee Institute, (now University) alumnae, I am delighted to be a part of this collaboration.
Dionna Smith
Chief Diversity & Public Affairs Officer GoGuardian
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SEE THE CHANGE WE'RE MAKING
Our latest report highlights fellows' work across transportation, digital equity, and sustainability — with measurable outcomes across multiple states.
2025 HBCU SMART CITIES IMPACT REPORT
ready to scale city pilots
Cities engaged nationwide
Fellows trained in innovation
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2024 HBCU Smart Cities Impact Report
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2023 HBCU Smart Cities Impact Report
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2022 HBCU Smart Cities Impact Report
Meet the 2025 Fellows
Discover the innovators from this year's North Carolina challenge, shaping smarter cities through data and community-led solutions.
Calling Cities
in North
Carolina
Our next HBCU Smart Cities Challenge will take place in North Carolina. We invite municipalities to apply and host student fellows tackling real urban challenges.
Why Join?
- Get dedicated fellows solving local challenges.
- Access rapid prototypes and community-driven pilots.
- Showcase innovation at the statewide North Carolina Challenge event.
Apply as a Host City
2024-2025 HBCU Smart Cities Program
Join the 24-25 HBCU Smart Cities Program to drive innovation and sustainable development in urban communities.
Our Partners:
HBCU Smart Cities Program
By the Numbers
Here are the key statistics from the 2023 program, highlighting the success and impact of our initiatives over the past year.
80+ HBCU Schools
Number of fellows
As the council person for District 1 in the City of Tuskegee
12+ Smart Cities
Number of fellows
As the council person for District 1 in the City of Tuskegee
224+ Fellows
Number of fellows
As the council person for District 1 in the City of Tuskegee
16+ Smart Solutions
Number of fellows
As the council person for District 1 in the City of Tuskegee
The PCF Research and
Development Program
The HBCU Smart Cities Program is a pioneering initiative that bridges academic excellence with real-world problem-solving through cutting-edge research and development (R&D). By leveraging emerging technologies such as IoT, AI, machine learning, and data analytics, the program empowers students to design and implement innovative solutions for critical urban challenges.
How the R&D Program Works:
⭐️ Data-Driven Research: We conduct in-depth studies on urban infrastructure, mobility, and digital transformation strategies.
⭐️ Prototyping & Testing: HBCU students and researchers develop functional prototypes and policy recommendations based on real-world data.
⭐️ Pilot Implementation: Cities receive tailored proof-of-concept projects that can be tested and refined before full-scale adoption.
⭐️ Scalability & Adoption: Successful projects are optimized for wider city deployment and long-term sustainability.
Key Areas of Research & Development:
✔ IoT & Smart Infrastructure – Sensor-based monitoring for water management, energy conservation, and waste reduction.
✔ Public Safety & Cybersecurity – AI-driven threat detection and smart surveillance for safer communities.
✔ Digital Equity & Connectivity – Expanding internet access and digital services for underserved communities.
✔ Sustainable Mobility & Transportation – Smart transit solutions that optimize efficiency and reduce emissions.
Why This Matters for Cities:
⭐️ Future-Proofing Cities: We help municipalities stay ahead of the curve with data-driven policymaking and technology integration.
⭐️ Workforce Development: Partnering with PCF means investing in the next generation of urban tech talent.
2024 HBCU Cities
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City of Charlotte
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Rocky Mount
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Morrisville
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Winston-Salem
Rundown of 2025 Event Activities
Explore the tangible benefits cities receive through participation in the HBCU Smart Cities Program, driving sustainable urban development and fostering community innovation.
Smart Cities Field
Trip Sessions
On February 18th, 2024 the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase Event took
Project Showcase
with Pathway Foundation
On February 18th, 2024 the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase Event took
Pitch competition for contestants
On February 18th, 2024 the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase Event took
Community Techday with Universities
On February 18th, 2024 the HBCU Smart Cities Showcase Event took
Grateful to Partners who made this Success and Impact possible
We proudly collaborate with cities dedicated to innovative and sustainable urban development. Below are the logos of our partner cities, each committed to advancing smart city initiatives.
Partner Cities Case
Study Student's Projects
The HBCU Smart Cities Program is a catalyst for innovation, connecting student creativity with urban challenges. Each project directly impacts participating cities — driving progress in public safety, transportation, and sustainability.
Morrisville’s Case Study
Navigating Through Congestion
In Morrisville, North Carolina, the crossroads of population growth, bustling train tracks, and the proximity to RDU International Airport converge to create a perfect storm of traffic congestion. This has led to significant mobility challenges within the community, manifesting in persistent traffic delays that impact the daily lives of residents and visitors alike.
Developed Solution for MOBILITY CHALLENGE
Real-time alerts for city officials via mobile or web app.
Insights to make traffic signal timing adjustments and other related decisions.
Immediate digital signage updates for route optimization.
Winston-Salem Case study
Enhancing Residents Visibility
An innovative mobile application designed to help residents of Winston-Salem manage their utilities more efficiently. This app allows users to monitor their water and electricity usage, receive real-time updates on their consumption, and access tips for reducing their utility bills. By leveraging data analytics and user-friendly interfaces, the app empowers residents to make informed decisions about their utility usage, ultimately promoting sustainability and cost savings.
Solution for UTILITIES MANAGEMENT CHALLENGE
The app provides real-time tracking of water and electricity usage, enabling residents to monitor their consumption patterns and identify potential savings.
Residents receive customized alerts and notifications about unusual spikes in usage, helping them detect leaks or inefficiencies promptly.
The app offers personalized tips and recommendations for optimizing utility usage based on individual consumption data, promoting sustainable practices.
Rock Mount's Transporation Challenge
Transforming Transportation in Rocky Mount.
In Rocky Mount, citizens are faced with transportation challenges that have created grey zones with limited access to busing, poor productivity, and inefficient transit rooutes. The Team MoveMount proposed the following microtransit solution.
Developed Solutions
Uniform payment system.
Real-time rerouting & ride scheduling
Multimodal transport options.
Key Event highlights
Register for the next year’s Challenge
Register now for next year's HBCU Smart Cities Challenge to join a community dedicated to innovative and sustainable urban development.