Free AI Bootcamp for Chicago Teens by Mark Cuban Foundation & Perficient
The Mark Cuban Foundation and Perficient offer a free AI Bootcamp for Chicago high school students. Applications close Sept 30. Learn generative AI!
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APPLICATIONS CLOSE SEPTEMBER 30
CHICAGO, Sept. 08, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Mark Cuban Foundation, in partnership with Perficient, the global AI and technology consulting firm, will host a no-cost Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp for high school students in Chicago this fall. The program is open to students in grades 9–12 and will take place over three consecutive Saturdays – October 31st, November 7th, and November 14th. 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.
“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 Perficient, the bootcamp will offer an avenue to explore this fascinating field of technology to any student, no matter their means.”
This year’s bootcamp, taking place in Chicago is hosted and staffed by Perficient.
Perficient is one of more than 35 host companies selected to host camps across the U.S.
“The future of AI goes well beyond technology and requires a new kind of builder. It requires people with the curiosity to ask better questions, the creativity to solve complex problems, and the confidence to imagine what’s possible,” said Santhosh Nair, Chief Partner Officer, Perficient. “Through our partnership with the Mark Cuban Foundation, we’re helping students develop those skills while gaining exposure to the people and careers shaping AI today. More importantly, we’re helping them see themselves as the innovators and builders who will define tomorrow’s workforce.”
Apply for the bootcamp at: markcubanai.org/students.
Watch Mark Cuban’s message about Mark Cuban Foundation’s AI bootcamps and access the full media kit here.
To learn more, visit markcubanai.org.
This bootcamp is facilitated with support from Mark Cuban Foundation AI Bootcamp Program’s media partner, Notified, a globally trusted technology partner for investor relations, public relations and marketing professionals.
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 3 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.
About Perficient
Perficient is the global AI and technology consulting firm disrupting the traditional consulting model. Powered by our 7,000+ advisors, engineers, and designers, Perficient implements AI-first solutions that break conventions and deliver outcomes that matter. Proudly serving clients that represent the world’s most innovative brands, and in collaboration with our powerful technology partner ecosystem, we bring deep industry expertise and data-driven design to redefine how businesses run and succeed. Perficient is different. For real. Learn more at perficient.com.
Media Contact: pr@markcubanai.org
