
Oxford and Cambridge AI Race
Date & Time
SUN 25 OCT
Capacity
Open
About
Oxford and Cambridge AI Race π Two universities. One day. Build what comes next. The Oxford-Cambridge rivalry is moving from the river to AI. Join us on 25th October at Kingβs College, Cambridge, for a one-day hackathon and policy competition.
This event brings together students, researchers and aspiring entrepreneurs from Oxford and Cambridge to tackle real-world challenges through AI, technology and public policy. π Compete to win: Cash prizes of up to Β£2000 across winning teams Fast-track access to the Solana Scholars Programme Tickets to the Solana Breakpoint Conference π€ The challenge: Build AI that matters (technical skills are not required, all disciplines welcome) Bring your technical, research or policy expertise to one shared competition exploring how AI can solve real-world problems, and how those solutions should be governed. There are two tracks: Build Track:
Projects could accelerate scientific discovery, improve research workflows, tackle institutional challenges or explore AI Γ Solana applications such as agent payments, identity, provenance and verification. Policy Track:
Policy participants can develop practical governance proposals alongside the technologies being built. We encourage teams to combine disciplines, connecting working prototypes with thoughtful approaches to implementation and governance. No prior AI or blockchain experience is required. Use Solana where it adds value to your idea. What to expect A keynote on what the next generation of AI researchers should build. Panels on technology policy and the journey from prototype to funded startup. A hands-on build sprint with support from mentors. Live pitches, demos, judging and awards. Opportunities to connect with academics, founders, investors and fellow builders. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks and networking. Technical, non technical and policy backgrounds are equally welcome. Apply with a team or individually Existing research can be the starting point for your project.
AI-assisted coding is encouraged: we want to see what you can build, test and explain. The day at a glance 09:00 β Registration, breakfast and coffee 09:30β11:30 β Welcome, keynote, panels and competition launch 11:30β18:30 β Build sprint, mentoring and lunch 18:30β19:45 β Pitches, demos, judging and awards 19:45β21:30 β Dinner, drinks and networking For students coming from Oxford University, return transport to and from Cambridge will be provided for the day. Programme subject to change. Speaker lineup, prize details and participant transport or travel support will be shared ahead of the event. π Kingβs College, Cambridge π 25 October 2026 Organised by Kings Politics Cambridge, AI3, Solana Superteam UK, and Oxbridge AIx
Supported by Cambridge Entrepreneurs Society, Oxford Entrepreneurs, OxVC, and OXAI.