Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence (CAAI) Second Year AI Fellowship 2026–2027

Applications are now open for the Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence (CAAI) Second Year AI Fellowship 2026–2027, a fellowship designed to support second-year MBA students at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business who are passionate about artificial intelligence and want to play an active role in strengthening the Booth AI community.

The fellowship, offered through the Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence (CAAI), provides funding for AI-related initiatives, mentorship from CAAI staff, opportunities to contribute to AI-focused events, and access to a growing network of Booth alumni working across the AI ecosystem. Fellows remain in the programme throughout the remainder of their MBA studies while helping expand AI engagement across the school.

About the CAAI Second Year AI Fellowship

The Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence launched the AI Fellowship Programme to encourage MBA students to become leaders within the Booth AI ecosystem. Rather than serving only as recipients of funding, fellows actively contribute to building a vibrant AI community through events, mentorship, and collaborative initiatives.

Second-Year Fellows continue the work started during their first year by leading projects, mentoring newer fellows, and helping shape AI programming at Chicago Booth. The fellowship supports initiatives that promote learning, collaboration, and innovation in artificial intelligence while connecting students with professionals working in the field.

The programme is ideal for students who want to combine business leadership with emerging AI technologies and play a meaningful role in advancing AI discussions within one of the world's leading business schools.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive a range of financial and professional benefits, including:

• Funding of up to US$1,000 for each approved AI-related initiative or activity.
• Mentorship and guidance from CAAI staff.
• Opportunities to connect with Chicago Booth alumni working in artificial intelligence.
• Participation in organizing AI-related events and activities.
• Opportunities to publish AI-related reflection or opinion pieces.
• Membership in a community of engaged AI-focused MBA students.
• Leadership experience through mentoring first-year AI Fellows.
• Professional networking with AI practitioners, researchers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be enrolled as a second-year MBA student at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
• Demonstrate a genuine interest in artificial intelligence.
• Have a clear vision for engaging and strengthening the Booth AI community.
• Be willing to actively participate in fellowship activities throughout the remainder of their MBA programme..

Why Apply?

The CAAI Second Year AI Fellowship offers more than financial support. It provides an opportunity to become a leader within one of the most dynamic AI communities at a leading global business school.

Participants can:

• Expand their understanding of AI and its business applications.
• Build relationships with AI professionals and Booth alumni.
• Gain leadership experience by organizing initiatives and mentoring peers.
• Receive institutional support for AI-focused projects.
• Strengthen their professional profile in one of today's fastest-growing fields.

Required Application Materials

Applicants should prepare:

• A completed online application form.
• Information about their proposed AI-related initiative or activity.
• A statement demonstrating their interest in artificial intelligence.
• An explanation of how they plan to contribute to the Booth AI community.
• Any additional information requested by CAAI during the application process.

Selection Process

Applications will be reviewed based on:

• Demonstrated interest in artificial intelligence.
• Quality and feasibility of the proposed AI initiative.
• Potential contribution to the Chicago Booth AI ecosystem.
• Leadership potential.
• Commitment to fostering engagement within the AI community.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

1. Confirm they are eligible as a second-year MBA student at Chicago Booth.
2. Develop an AI-related initiative or activity they would like to pursue.
3. Prepare a statement outlining their interest in AI and their vision for contributing to the Booth community.
4. Complete the online application form.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure their proposed initiative clearly aligns with the fellowship's objectives of advancing AI engagement across the Booth community.