The University of Colorado System Office of Academic Affairs, in partnership with the Office of the President, announced on March 19 that it is accepting submissions for three new systemwide awards and grants aimed at supporting innovative uses of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching, learning, and scholarly work across all CU campuses.
These opportunities are designed to encourage faculty and staff to explore creative applications of AI that can improve student outcomes and advance impactful research. The initiative reflects the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and excellence throughout its academic community.
The three opportunities include two recognition awards—one for innovative use of AI in teaching and learning, and another for AI-driven scholarly or creative work—as well as an “AI Sprint Grant” focused on enhancing course outcomes through experimental pedagogical strategies. Faculty from various tracks are eligible to apply or be nominated, with a submission deadline set for March 30, 2026.
According to the announcement, “By championing bold, creative applications of AI that advance compelling learning outcomes and impactful scholarly and creative work, the University of Colorado continues to cultivate a dynamic culture of innovation and excellence across the CU system.”
The “AI Recognition Award: AI for Teaching & Learning” will honor faculty who demonstrate measurable improvements in student learning through their use of AI. The “AI Recognition Award: AI for Scholarly & Creative Work” is intended for those whose innovative application of artificial intelligence has led to significant contributions within their field. The “AI Sprint Grant: AI for Teaching & Learning” aims to provide resources so faculty can quickly develop and implement new approaches using AI in their courses.
Faculty members interested in these opportunities are encouraged to submit nominations or proposals themselves or share information about the awards with colleagues engaged in advancing innovative uses of artificial intelligence at CU.
