Tuskegee University is celebrating a major win after its student team secured first place at the ninth annual National HBCU Battle of the Brains competition, bringing home a $20,000 grand prize.
According to Tuskegee University, the team earned the top spot with their concept called SHOP.PY, a business idea focused on solving a growing problem in online shopping. The platform addresses how AI-driven search results can mislead consumers and hurt brands that struggle to get visibility.
The competition, held March 11 through 15 in Austin, Texas, brought together more than 25 teams from HBCUs across the country. Students were challenged to work through a fast-paced, 24-hour competition that tested their ability to think critically, collaborate, and deliver real-world solutions under pressure.
According to Tuskegee University, finalists also had to present their ideas in a quick pitch session where industry leaders evaluated their concepts.
Tuskegee’s leadership made it clear this win is about more than just the prize money.
“Tuskegee students are not merely students; they are problem-solvers shaped by design to confront the great challenges of our time,” said Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO, according to Tuskegee University. “By reinvesting their winnings to advance their project and by contributing to scholarships for fellow students, they demonstrate the true essence of the Tuskegee Way.”
The team plans to split the $20,000 to continue developing SHOP.PY, support the university’s Career Education Leadership Development Center, and give back through scholarships.
Beyond the competition, students also got hands-on exposure to the industry, connecting with major companies like Capital One, Dell Technologies, eBay, and The Home Depot.
“A central tentpole of Tuskegee’s Renaissance Era is that our students are becoming workforce ready and equipped to make measurable impact earlier than graduation,” said Walter P. Cooper Sr., according to Tuskegee University.
The winning team included students from computer science, business, and health science programs, highlighting the kind of cross-discipline collaboration the competition is built on.
Another big win for Tuskegee, and another reminder of the level of talent coming out of HBCUs right now.
