Indiana Tech to host free Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp sessions for teens
August 12, 2026Indiana Tech will host the Mark Cuban Foundation’s no-cost Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp for high school students in Fort Wayne this fall. The program is open to students in grades 9–12 and will take place over three consecutive Saturdays–Oct. 31, Nov. 7 and Nov. 14. Meals, transportation assistance and technology will be provided at no cost.
The AI Bootcamp gives underserved students hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI tools, including generative AI, and explores real-world applications in fields such as healthcare, arts, business, computer science, sports science and career readiness. Students will also complete a capstone project under the guidance of industry mentors. Indiana Tech is one of more than 35 organizations selected to host camps across the U.S.
“As AI continues to become an undeniable force in all of our lives, it’s crucial that we open the door to this knowledge, especially to young people who want to explore it,” said Mark Cuban, founder. “While technology expands and becomes more advanced, it becomes more critical that we ensure our students are prepared when they apply for schools or jobs in the future. Thanks to our work with Indiana Tech, the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”
This year’s bootcamp is being conducted in the university’s Keene Building, 1120 E. Washington Blvd. In addition, the event is being sponsored by Junction 36, an Indiana Tech Initiative developed to help organizations bridge the gap between emerging technology and real-world application. Located at Electric Works, Junction 36 provides specialized research and development, testing, validation and integration services that help businesses adopt new technologies, accelerate product development and prepare their workforce for Industry 4.0.
“Indiana Tech is proud to partner with the Mark Cuban Foundation to bring this AI Bootcamp to Fort Wayne,” said Indiana Tech President Dr. Karl W. Einolf. “As we work to lead our region in AI education, we are committed to helping people develop practical AI skills they can use both personally and professionally. This bootcamp is a natural extension of that commitment and an exciting opportunity for participants to explore the real-world potential of AI.”
Hosting the Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp is one more example of Indiana Tech’s growing leadership in artificial intelligence education across northeast Indiana. Over the past 18 months, the university has secured significant external support to advance AI learning, research and workforce development, including a $150,000 Lilly Endowment grant to explore how AI can transform teaching, learning and career preparation, as well as Ball Venture Fund support for community-focused AI initiatives. Combined with more than $650,000 in AI-related grants awarded to Indiana Tech researchers in 2025, these investments are helping the university expand AI education opportunities for learners of all ages while preparing students, employees and community members to thrive in an AI-driven future.
Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org/students.
About Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI Bootcamp Initiative: The Mark Cuban Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private non-profit led by entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban. The AI Bootcamps Program at MCF seeks to inspire young people with emerging technology so that they can create more equitable futures for themselves and their communities. Over three consecutive Saturdays, underserved 9th-12th grade students learn what AI is and isn’t, where they already interact with AI in their own lives, the ethical implications of AI systems and much more. Learn more about the no-cost AI Bootcamp program at markcubanai.org.