Future of Retail

The retail industry is rapidly changing under continual pressure both the pandemic and changing consumer attitudes. Alongside this pressure, the implementation of new technology and processes means retail operations are changing at every level. These developments can be scary or exciting; they also present many complex challenges going forward.

Participate in the Future of Retail Challenge to tackle the critical challenges that matter most and join a network of support to find the best solutions and make a difference in the retail industry.

Tackle the Challenge

Future of Retail

Participate in the Future of Retail Challenge to tackle the critical challenges that matter most and join a network of support to find the best solutions and make a difference in the retail industry.

Tackle the Challenge

Photo: shopping from home on digital devices.

Why Get Involved

Disruptive technologies have the potential to change every aspect of industry and present critical new opportunities. These changes also impact the skills employers want and need. This Challenge works to not only open up new opportunities for organizations of every size, but for students and graduates as well.

Innovators

Awesome prizes & incentives to take your idea to market

Build your portfolio & discover digital career pathways

Create social impact

Problem Solvers

Empower students to become innovative problem solvers

Illustration: a graduation cap on a screen.

Create remote work-integrated learning experience

Connect with bright new talent

Assessment Process

Step 1

Initial Assessment & Semi-Final Selection

Step 2

Selection of Finalists

Step 3

Selection of Winners

Step 4

Competition winners carry out idea

Prize Pool

30 prizes at 10k

$300 in Linux course credits to all winning teams

10 Summer internships provided by Prepr
$1,000 in Lab Kits from Prepr

Explore Industry Future Challenge Verticals

Cybersecurity

Protection of customers personal and financial data is critical.

Strong cybersecurity measures lead to improved customer satisfaction.
Clear and transparent data privacy policies are critical in managing customer expectations.
Advanced data encryption and cybersecurity keeps both the business and their customer safe.

Smart Cities

Consumers want smart, tailored content that aligns with their values and their social activities.

Some retailers are already experimenting with different models and projects in order to generate usable data.
Data collected from iBeacons, geofencing, and WiFi can be used to to create consumer profiles.
Reshaping cities will result in rethinking how businesses and consumers approach purchases.

AI/ML

As the world continues to change, retail must work to change alongside it
Retail is finding innovative ways to use AI to make processes and customer experiences better.

AI can be used to track orders and purchases in order to more efficiently restock shelves.
Some retailers are using technology to help customers digitally try on clothes, makeup, and even glasses.

Build the Future, Today

Our goal is to create meaningful exchanges between public and private sector organizations. Interested in being part of the conversation? Get involved by joining a Challenge or be part of the change by supporting the initiative as a sponsor.

Tackle this Challenge Become a Mentor Become a Partner