2025-26 High School Big Data Challenge
Leveraging Big Data and AI to Strengthen Food Security and Promote Sustainable Agriculture
This four-month, inquiry-based experiential learning program empowers high school and CEGEP students to create impactful, academically recognized, real-world solutions
Opportunity to build a data analytics & AI portfolio project
Industry-recognized certifications in AI and Data Analytics
Scholarly publication of original project findings
Hands-on scientific writing and manuscript preparation
Agile project management and teamwork experience
Preparation of a strong, professional student profile
HSBDC
The High School Big Data Challenge (HSBDC) is a national, interdisciplinary, experiential learning program that strengthens your computational thinking while reinforcing problem-solving and project management. It bridges traditional classroom study with post-secondary education and empowers students to develop innovative, sustainable solutions through open science inquiry
The Program
Participating students form teams and select their topic within this year’s focus on food security. They conduct open data and AI research using proprietary data science, AI, and science communication workshops by leveraging open-access datasets and industry-level tools.
Scholarly Publication
At the end of the program, each team will submit their project’s abstract, manuscript, and digital poster. All abstracts will be compiled and published in the open-access, peer-reviewed STEM Fellowship Journal.
National in-person conference
Additionally, all participants are invited to attend the national in-person conference, where they will be expected to present their team’s research in two formats: a research poster and a three-minute thesis presentation in front of leading academia and industry experts.

These deliverables are designed to help students develop and showcase their research, communication and presentation skills in a professional setting.
Eastern Canada Conference
Hosted at the University of Toronto under the Honorary Patronage of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
Western Canada Conference
Hosted at the University of Calgary’s Hunter Hub under the Honorary Patronage of the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.

These conferences provide rare opportunities to build academic credentials, network with professionals, and experience real-world scholarship.
Program Awards
Our program recognizes outstanding student work with the following awards at each regional conference
All participants are invited to submit their manuscripts to the STEM Fellowship Journal. Submissions are subject to a standard publication fee and undergo double peer review for acceptance.
Top Posters
Two monetary awards for the best posters
Top Presentations
Two monetary awards for the best oral presentations
Top Manuscripts
The top-rated manuscript, as determined by reviewers, earns a publication fee waiver in the STEM Fellowship Journal.
This year’s program tasks students to uncover evidence-based solutions for the
The Topic
United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger
The challenge of achieving global food security continues to be one of the most pressing issues of our time.

Despite significant advances in agricultural practices and food distribution networks, significant disparities in access to sustainable and healthy food options still persist across the globe.

Data-driven solutions turn information from satellites, climate trends, and socioeconomic indicators into actionable insights.
They predict crop yields, identify vulnerable populations, and guide targeted interventions, helping communities adapt to climate change.

Leveraging data in this way enables innovative strategies that strengthen food systems and combat hunger worldwide.
Choose Your Path
We have a few options on how you can participate, so you can choose the fits you.
Early Bird Price
before Sep. 30
$200
Self-Paced Registration
Team-based, flexible learning
Register a team of up to 5
Access STEM Fellowship resources on data science, AI, and science communication
Explore open-access datasets and work at your own pace
Present your completed project at the conference and publish your findings in the academic journal
*All prices in Canadian dollars
$250
per team
Apply Now
Early Bird Price
before Sep. 30
$1350
Instructor-Lead Registration
Structured program with expert support
Register individually for a 55-hour guided program
Two 1.5-hour synchronous classes and 2-hour asynchronous learning per week
CISCO Academy Introduction to AI and Data Science Fundamentals courses and industry certifications
Agile teamwork, mentorship, and research guidance
Present your completed project at the conference and publish your findings in the academic journal
*Partial scholarships for full price only
*All prices in Canadian dollars
$1800
per person
Apply Now
Program Schedule
Sept 10 - Oct 8, 2025
Registration Period
Oct 1, 2025 @ 7 PM ET
Student Q&A Session
Oct 6, 2025 @ 7 PM ET
Teacher/Parent Q&A
Oct 13, 2025 - Jan 23, 2026
Program Period
Jan 9, 2026
Manuscript Deadline
Jan 23, 2026
Poster & Slide Deadline
Feb 11, 2026
Eastern Canada Conference (Toronto)
Feb 20, 2026
Western Canada Conference (Calgary)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can register for HSBDC?
Students and parents can register individual students for Instructor-led program. Student groups of up to 5 (or their member), parent, or teacher can register a team for the Self-paced participation.
Do I need previous programming experience?
You do not need any previous experience with programming. We welcome all students who are eager to put effort into learning and expanding their skillsets, as well as those who show any level of interest in data science or the challenge topic. Additionally, we will provide you with access to resources and webinars to learn everything you need to succeed!
How do I form or join a team?
For the Self-paced program, we encourage students to team up with their peers.  You may form a team of students at the same or different high schools. It is also recommended to make interdisciplinary teams given the nature of our data challenge topics.
Do I need to have an idea for my project?
Think about what interests you the most in the field of the provided topic. Read the internet and research articles. In challenges like this one, many teams come up with their topics in the first few days of the challenge, rather than beforehand.
Is this challenge only open to Canadian students?
No, students from any country can sign up. Please note that the final conferences will be held in Calgary and Toronto.
Can students from different high schools form a team?
Yes, students do not necessarily have to represent the high school at which they are studying.

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bigdata@stemfellowship.org

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Choose your path

Lead with Purpose

Take the lead in advancing your skills in data science, scholarly communication, and leadership while driving impactful solutions to global food security challenges!