City of Carlsbad
Challenge Overview
The City of Carlsbad team aimed to improve how small businesses identify and secure locations that comply with zoning regulations. Students explored the challenges businesses face when navigating zoning requirements and limited access to affordable property databases, which often lead to costly delays and inefficiencies. They designed a user-friendly solution that integrates property availability with zoning data, allowing businesses to input their intended use and receive prefiltered, compliant property options. The project included mapping business types to zoning categories, developing a prototype interface, and exploring AI-driven features for conversational search. The solution supports Carlsbad’s Economic Development goals by increasing transparency, reducing barriers for entrepreneurs, and fostering a more vibrant and accessible business environment.
Challenge Mentor
- Rachel Maltz, Senior Program Manager, City of Carlsbad
Student Team
- Bhagya Ram, Data Science Major, Class of 2026
- Devin Toth, Cognitive Science Major, Class of 2027
- Justin Luu, Cognitive Science Major, Class of 2028
- Mary-Ann Huang, Cognitive Science Major, Class of 2027
- Sanjana Sarathi, Cognitive Science Major, Class of 2027