Since its inception in 2019, the Mark Cuban Foundation (MCF) AI Bootcamps have revolutionized technology education by creating pathways for young high-school innovators to shape a more equitable future. In a landmark year of expansion, 2024 saw the Foundation establish a robust network of over 30 bootcamp locations, touching the lives of more than 700 aspiring technologists across the nation.

Cultivating entrepreneurial spirit

The Foundation’s impact resonates far beyond traditional education metrics. Their innovative approach has ignited an entrepreneurial spark among participants, with 45% of student alumni actively working to transform their capstone projects into viable businesses. More impressively, 11% have already developed comprehensive business plans, demonstrating the immediate real-world application of their learning.

A unique public-private partnership model

At the heart of MCF’s success lies its groundbreaking mentorship program, connecting industry veterans with emerging talent. This bridge between current tech leaders and future innovators creates a powerful knowledge transfer pipeline, ensuring that students receive not just theoretical knowledge, but practical insights from those actively shaping the industry.

“I believe in the transformative power of AI and want to give back to those who are just beginning their journey in this field. Being part of the process as students discover what AI means to them and guiding them toward investing in their careers in this fast-evolving industry, is something I deeply value.

“By volunteering, I not only want to share my knowledge and experience but also learn from the participants themselves. Their perspectives and fresh approaches can offer insights that help me grow both personally and professionally,” shared one of the mentors from the 2024 New York City bootcamp.

Impact metrics that matter

The program’s effectiveness is reflected in its consistently positive participant feedback. Beyond technical skills, students emerge with a deep understanding of technology’s role in driving social change, prepared to tackle real-world challenges with innovative solutions. 

Additionally, MCF transparently aims to serve students that come from demographics that are largely underrepresented in STEM careers: Students of color, students coming from a low-to-moderate income households, students identifying as nonmale, and first generation college students. In 2024, 90% of accepted students met at least one of these equity criteria.

To ensure that AI bootcamps are accessible to underserved students, there is no cost for students to attend. MCF then provides transportation assistance and works with host companies to provide meals and student computers during bootcamp.

Looking ahead: 2025 expansion

As MCF continues to grow, it seeks forward-thinking partners to establish new bootcamp locations in 2025. This expansion represents more than just geographical growth — it’s an opportunity to amplify tech education’s impact in underserved communities.

Organizations interested in sponsoring a 2025 bootcamp in their region can connect with Lauren Ronse, Director of Partnerships, atlauren.ronse@markcubanai.org.

*Published with contributions from Eileen Vidrine, esteemed data leader and advisor at the Mark Cuban Foundation.