The AI Incubator
February 17 - March 17, 2026
A 4-week live online program where students ages 9–15 build a real startup idea, create an AI-powered prototype, and pitch their venture to experienced judges.
Who its for
Age 9-12
Age 12-15
Format
Live, online sessions led by experienced founders & educators.
Duration
4 Weeks (2 sessions/week)
8 Online Sessions x 90 minutes (12 hours)
90+
School Partners
5,000+
Instruction Hours
200,000$+
Startup Capital Awarded
1,500+
Entrepreneurs Created
800+
Startups built
Clients We've Worked With
What Students Build in the Program
1
A real startup idea
Students identify a real problem and develop an idea designed to solve it.
2
AI-powered prototype
Students use age-appropriate AI tools to design, research, and build a working concept.
3
A clear business model
Students break down how their idea works, who it’s for, and how it could earn revenue.
What Students Learn to Do
Problem Framing
Students learn how to move from vague ideas to clearly defined problems worth solving.
Critical Evaluation
Students learn to question assumptions, assess evidence, and improve ideas through feedback.
Solution Design
Students learn how to design a solution and clearly explain how and why it works. They can defend their viewpoint.
Build & Iterate
Students learn how to create a prototype, reflect on feedback, and refine their work through iteration.
Value Creation
Students develop an understanding of pricing, revenue logic, and how ideas translate into real-world value.
Clear Communication
Students practice presenting ideas clearly, responding to questions, and communicating in a structured way.
Past Sharks and Events
The program concludes with a final pitch event, where students present their ventures to a panel of experienced founders and operators.
Ilker Sozdinler
Managing Partner,
Oleka Capital
Dr. Yılmaz Argüden
Chairman,
ARGE Consulting
Mehtap Yıldız
Founder,
Platinyaka & Mylab
Damla Şener Akkaynak
CFO of Sera Group,
Co-founder, Humm Organic
Lead Educators
Each cohort is led by a dedicated educator, with all Ascend Now educators experienced in project-based learning with high-performing students worldwide.
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Yahya H
Co-Founder, CEO
Pattern Technologies
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Silvian G
Founder & Harvard Teaching Fellow
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Ana G
Learning Specialist
Harvard Graduate
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Defne I
AI Leadership coach with 25+ years of experience in Tech Fields.
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