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.