/PRNewswire/ –The Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC) Data Science Initiative (DSI)has partnered with theMastercard Center for Inclusive Growthto launch the2025 Mastercard Data Challenge, a nationwide competition that empowers HBCU students to use data science for social good.
The challenge calls on student teams to analyzeMastercard’s Inclusive Growth Score™ (IGS)and public datasets to identify communities with low inclusive growth scores (45 or below) and develop data-driven, evidence-based strategies to strengthen those communities. The Inclusive Growth Score (IGS) provides local partners, policymakers, community leaders and impact investors with a clear, simple view of social and economic indicators at the neighborhood level. These results help them understand what’s working and what needs help.
Using the Inclusive Growth Score platform, teams will analyze data related to housing affordability, small business growth, health coverage, and early education enrollment to uncover patterns and design interventions. Proposed solutions may range frompolicy recommendations and workforce development programstoAI-powered digital toolsthat promote equitable growth.
Students will apply data science techniques — including statistical modeling, visualization, and predictive analytics — to uncover insights and propose solutions that promote economic equity, workforce growth, and community resilience.
Throughout the challenge, teams will participate invirtual workshops,mentorship sessions, andin-person pitch stops at partner HBCUs, includingAlabama A&M University, Jackson State University, Fisk University. Upcoming stops include: Bowie State University(11/13), and Grambling State University(11/20). The competition will culminate in theFinalist Showcase and Awards Ceremony, heldfrom December 4 to 6, 2025, at Mastercard’s Atlanta headquarters, where top teams will present their findings to corporate and community leaders. A total of$52,400 in cash prizeswill be awarded, including a$15,000 grand prizefor the first-place team.
For more information about the2025 Mastercard Data Challenge, visit https://datascience.aucenter.eduor contactJamal Ware at[emailprotected].
About the AUC Data Science Initiative
TheAtlanta University Center Data Science Initiative (AUC DSI)serves as a hub for data science education, research, and collaboration acrossClark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Morehouse School of Medicine.Through partnerships with industry leaders such as Mastercard, Google, and UnitedHealth Group, the initiative builds student pipelines into data-driven careers while ensuring HBCU representation in the evolving tech and analytics landscape.
SOURCE Atlanta University Center Consortium