Freedom Institute Announces Official Submission of Freedom AI to the 2026 Edison Awards

NAPLES, Fla., Nov. 18, 2025. The Freedom Institute is proud to announce that it has officially submitted Freedom AI for consideration in the 2026 Edison Awards, one of the most esteemed global honors recognizing excellence in innovation. The application was submitted through the Edison Awards portal during the 2026 entry window, which runs from Aug. 1 through Nov. 14, 2025.

The Edison Awards celebrate breakthroughs that embody the spirit of Thomas Edison, solutions that are creative, impactful, and capable of transforming industries and communities. With the submission of Freedom AI, the Freedom Institute marks a major milestone in its mission to develop students’ critical thinking skills, ensuring their financial freedom and patriotic American citizenship upon graduation – through the use of AI integrated into the curriculum.

“Entering Freedom AI High into the Edison Awards represents a pivotal moment in our mission. AI will not replace humans, but humans who embrace and use AI well will replace those who don’t. We’re ensuring our students and families are on the leading edge of that transformation.”

Chris Marker, CEO, The Freedom Institute

The Freedom Institute’s Executive Director of Programs & AI Dr. Nathan Poteet underscores the Institute’s commitment to be at the forefront of AI education.

“Our program gives students the tools, coaching, and confidence to succeed in a world where AI fluency is as essential as reading and math.”

Dr. Nathan Poteet, Executive Director of Programs & AI

What Sets Freedom AI High Apart

Freedom AI High is a next-generation, personalized online high school designed to prepare students for an AI-driven future through:

• Personalized Education: Every student is paired with a dedicated Success Coach, who acts as teacher, advisor, and mentor. Success Coaches guide students not only academically, but also in college planning and career development.
• AI Integration: The curriculum weaves AI tools and platforms directly into learning, enabling students to build fluency and confidence in interacting with generative AI, robotics, and intelligent systems.
• AI Literacy & Certification: Students can earn industry-recognized AI credentials, building skills in prompting, generative AI, and real-world applications. This includes certification pathways aligned with platforms used in business and technology settings.
• Career & College Preparation: Through its C5 curriculum (Core, Civics, College & Career, Consumerism, Character), Freedom AI primes learners for both higher education and future careers. Success Coaches collaborate with students on career-success plans, internships, and dual enrollment opportunities with local institutions.
• Human Success Coaching: The human element remains central. Success Coaches maintain intimate ratios (about 30:1) and serve as more than academic guides. They are mentors, advocates, internship facilitators, and supporters of students’ long-term goals.

Community AI Certification: Expanding Impact

In addition to serving enrolled high school students, the Freedom Institute is preparing to launch a Community AI Certification program: industry-recognized training open to adult learners, professionals, and high schoolers alike. This initiative will make AI credentialing accessible to the broader community, equipping individuals with the practical, real-world skills required for tomorrow’s economy.

Promotional Video Submitted with the Entry

As part of the official nomination package, the Institute submitted the below promotional video illustrating the design, mission, and societal value of Freedom AI, and highlights the platform’s innovative approach and potential large-scale educational impact.

• Competition Video: https://www.freedominstitute.ai/about

Next Steps in Edison Awards Process

• Finalists will be notified in January 2026.
• Public announcement of all finalists is scheduled for February 2026.
• Winners will be revealed at the 2026 Edison Awards Gala, scheduled for April 2026 in Fort Myers.

The Institute is honored to have Freedom AI considered among global innovators pushing the boundaries of education and technology.