January 7-20, 2026

NextGen Startup Challenge 2026
Smart City and Civic Innovation



Hosted by Bellevue College Computer Science Department

and Korean University Partners (COSS Immersive Media, COSS Future Mobility, JNU RISE)

Bellevue College, Bellevue, Washington, USA


The NextGen Startup Challenge fosters creativity and teamwork by uniting Korean and U.S. students in an exciting competition focused on Smart City and Civic Innovation. Over two dynamic weeks, participants strengthen global connections while developing forward-looking solutions that enhance urban living and public well-being.

View Schedule View Program

Main Events

Meet and Greet session: Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2:00 PM, @N201
Kickoff and Orientation: Thursday, Jan. 8, 11:00 AM, @N201

XR Lab Experience
thursday, jan. 8
Workshops

Friday, Jan 9

Essential Elements of a Compelling Business Plan


Monday, Jan. 12

The Art of the Pitch
ThinkCity 2026
Saturday, jan. 10
SmartCity One-Day Hackathon
Industry Visit

Tuesday, Jan. 13

Boeing, Amazon


Thursday, Jan. 15

Microsoft, T-Mobile

Mock Interview
friday, jan. 16
 
Networking Events
Friday, jan. 9
Friday, jan. 16
 
Capstone Project Final Presentation
Tuesday, jan. 20

Location

The NextGen Startup Challenge takes place in Bellevue, Washington, where students engage in AI innovation while exploring the Bellevue College area.

Bellevue College

3000 Landerholm Cir SE

Bellevue, WA 98007, USA