EVAL EdTech Evaluation Challenge

Advancing Rigorous Evidence for AI in K-12 Learning

The EVAL EdTech Evaluation Challenge invites developers of innovative AI-powered K–12 learning tools to enter into a contest with Boston University researchers in independent, gold-standard evaluations that translate innovation into proven learning outcomes. View the Challenge rules in this PDF and a copy of the application questions in this PDF. 

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Eligibility Criteria:

  • Companies based in the United States
  • Learning Impact
     Tools that assess and accelerate K–12 learning outcomes with a clear theory of change grounded in learning science.
  • Educational Practice
    Solutions that improve student outcomes across domains, either directly through learning experiences or indirectly by enhancing teaching and instructional quality.
  • Differentiation and Equity
     Design solutions that support diverse learner needs through inclusive, adaptive, and accessible approaches. 
  • Research Readiness
    Tools that are ready for deployment with active users and demonstrate the capacity to support rigorous independent evaluation, including technical and operational support.

Timeline:

  • October 21, 2025: Challenge Launch
  • November 17, 2025: Deadline for Phase One submissions
  • November 24, 2025: Select participants invited to Phase Two
  • December 22, 2025: Deadline for Phase Two submissions
  • January 3-7, 2026: Finalist interviews and live pitches
  • January 9, 2026: Winner Announced
  • Spring 2026: Winner Impact Study

Winner Benefits Package

  • Rigorous RCT Study: Comprehensive effectiveness evaluation tailored to product type (valued at $150,000)
  • Independent Research Guarantee: Research conducted by EVAL Collaborative with full methodological independence
  • Expert Educational Insights: Access to detailed feedback and recommendations from leading education researchers on product effectiveness, implementation barriers, and improvement opportunities
  • Publication Agreement: Results will be published regardless of outcomes, with company appropriately acknowledged but not as co-author
  • Marketing Partnership Rights: Approved use of study results and EVAL research partnership in company marketing materials through mutually agreed framework
  • Comprehensive Validation Report: Multi-dimensional impact assessment covering efficacy, effectiveness, ethics, equity, and environment (International Centre for EdTech Impact, 2024)
  • Media Coverage: Press release and conference presentation opportunities
  • Network Access: Introductions to education leaders and potential implementation partners
  • Follow-up Support: 6-month post-study consultation on scaling evidence-based implementation (study-specific)
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