2026 CSAA-Guidewire Innovation Challenge

Program Overview

The Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s (TMCF) Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I&E) programming in partnership with two of our dynamic collaborative partners, CSAA Insurance and Guidewire Software invite you to our 2nd HBCU Innovation Challenge hosted in Walnut Creek, California! This exciting event is a three-and-a-half-day case competition covering design thinking, business modeling, and pitch instruction. CSAA and Guidewire wil host panel sessions focused on careers in insurance and software development. Winners will receive scholarship awards, and participants will have the opportunity to meet with CSAA and Guidewire’s executives and senior leaders. 

About CSAA

CSAA Insurance Group, a AAA insurer, offers automobile, homeowners, and other personal lines of insurance to AAA Members through AAA clubs in 23 states and the District of Columbia. CSAA IG is recognized as an award-winning employer that supports innovation, inclusion, and well-being. Our hybrid work model provides flexibility in how and where employees work, with over 90% of employees permanently working remotely. 

Learn more here

About Guidewire

Guidewire Software, Inc., commonly known as Guidewire, is a global software company based in San Mateo, California. It offers an industry software platform for property and casualty insurance carriers in the U.S. and worldwide.

Learn more here

This program is now accepting applications from full-time students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) who are innovative and entrepreneurial-minded. Students selected must be available to participate during the entire innovation challenge from June 29th - July 1st, 2026. 

Program Dates: June 29th - July 1st, 2026

Location: Walnut Creek, California

Benefits

Students participating in this program will benefit from the following:

• Engaging business models, design thinking, venture ideation, and pitching sessions
• Opportunity to network and engage with CSAA and Guidewire executives and hiring managers
• Hear from industry experts and leaders from various divisions
• Prizes and awards for top teams and Innovator of the Day
• All expenses paid trip and an exclusive swag box for all participants
• CSAA Internship opportunities that emphasize hands-on learning and real-world immersion into the insurance business
• NO ESSAY REQUIRED

Eligibility

Below are the requirements for students interested in applying to this program:

• Enrolled full-time in an accredited HBCU or PBI 
• Must be in good academic standing with no disciplinary infractions
• No minimum GPA requirement 
• Proficient in Microsoft Applications (PowerPoint, Word, Excel)
• Demonstrates the ability to work well on a team
• Must be willing to travel to Walnut Creek, California, June 29th - July 1st, 2026
• Willing to grow and learn in a collaborative environment
• ALL MAJORS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY
• NO ESSAY REQUIRED

How to Apply

To apply, click the APPLY button to complete the 2026 Innovation Challenge application.

Application Open Date:  March 27th, 2026 @ 11:59 PM EST

Application Close Date: May 1st, 2026 @ 11:59 PM EST