Compete in the Southeast Data Competition for an Efficient Transportation System Design, the annual innovation challenge powered by the Center for Regional and Rural Connected Communities (CR2C2) and Honda. Open to students across seven consortium universities, this competition equips the next generation of transportation leaders to create bold, data-driven solutions that remove real mobility barriers in rural and underserved communities throughout the Southeast.

The experience unfolds across three dynamic phases:

1. Training Phase
Students gain hands-on training in cutting-edge data analysis tools, AI applications, and transportation efficiency. Participants earn a certificate while forming interdisciplinary teams supported by community partners and access to real-world datasets.

2. Concept Design Phase
Teams travel to rural communities, conduct interviews with local professionals, and craft thoughtful, data-informed concepts addressing pressing mobility challenges. Local evaluators provide feedback to help teams strengthen and refine their ideas.

3. Final Design Phase
Top-performing teams advance to the CR2C2 Annual Meeting, where they pitch their solutions to transportation leaders and industry experts. Finalists compete for awards and scholarships, gaining visibility and connections that elevate their academic and professional trajectory.

Through this immersive, real-world learning experience, students build advanced skills in transportation analytics, AI modeling, and geospatial problem-solving. Communities, in turn, receive valuable insights and prototype solutions that strengthen the reliability, equity, and efficiency of their transportation systems.

The competition also fuels ongoing collaboration between universities, state agencies, and local stakeholders—driving lasting innovation and impactful transportation solutions across the region.