Every year, Imagine Cup invites student founders to take on challenges that institutions, industries, and communities face every day. These categories point to where technology can make a lasting difference, offering you the chance to build solutions that scale. Whether you align with one of the five focus areas or chart your own path, the categories are here to guide and inspire—not define your limits. Your user might be a student in a classroom, a patient in a clinic, or a shopper in a store. But your customer? That’s the institution behind them; a school, a hospital, a bank, a retailer.
Cybersecurity
In a digital world, trust is everything. As organizations grow more distributed, the risks of phishing, ransomware, and insider threats rise daily. But AI is turning security into more than a defense,,it’s becoming a competitive advantage. From protecting research labs to keeping universities secure, the stakes are high, and the opportunities are wide open.
How could you build solutions that outsmart threats and strengthen digital trust?
Education
Behind every classroom is the same hope: that students will have the chance to thrive. With AI, schools can personalize lessons, support teachers, and close gaps in learning. Imagine tools that free up educators’ time, help students stay engaged, and expand access for those who need it most. Education is about more than test scores; it’s about unlocking potential.
What could you create to transform learning experiences for students and teachers everywhere?
Financial Services
Banking and finance are evolving fast, with Agentic AI powering the shift. From mobile wallets to fraud detection, institutions are using technology to build trust, improve access, and streamline experiences. Imagine helping a customer move through onboarding in minutes instead of days, or giving people tools to make financial choices aligned with their values.
How could you reimagine financial services to be safer, faster, and more inclusive?
Health and Life Sciences
Few things matter more than health. AI is already helping care teams collaborate faster, researchers accelerate discovery, and clinicians make smarter decisions. New frameworks are integrating data, research, and patient input in real time, giving doctors clearer insights and patients more personalized care.
What could you build to help healthcare providers deliver care that is faster, safer, and more human?
Retail and Consumer Goods
From how products are sourced to how shoppers are served; retail is being reshaped by AI. Companies are moving from reacting to demand to anticipating it, optimizing supply chains, forecasting trends, and delivering more personal customer experiences. Whether in a store, online, or both, today’s consumers expect connection, convenience, and care.
Could your solution change the way people shop, discover, and connect with the brands they love?
Your challenge, Your Choice
These categories spotlight some of the most urgent opportunities today. You can align with them—or create your own. The important thing is to start building with Microsoft’s trusted AI technologies, backed by the mentorship and resources of Imagine Cup.
Activate your Azure credits and start building today
