Congressional App Challenge

Each fall, Members of the U.S. House of Representatives sponsor the Congressional App Challenge, a nationwide competition for middle and high school students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). This challenge showcases young talent and encourages innovation across the country, including in our district. Each participating Member of Congress selects a winning app to represent their community.

Key Dates

• May 1, 2025 – The challenge officially launches. Students may register and begin submitting their apps.
• October 30, 2025 (12 PM EST) – Submission deadline. All apps must be submitted by this time.

Who Can Participate?

Students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Be enrolled in middle or high school as of October 30, 2025.
• Live or attend school in North Carolina’s 14th Congressional District.
• Participate individually or as part of a team of up to four students.

Team Guidelines

• Teams can have up to four members.
• At least half of the team must be eligible to compete in the district.
  • Example:
    • A team of 2 – only 1 must be eligible.
    • A team of 3 – at least 2 must be eligible.
    • A team of 4 – at least 2 must be eligible.
• Students who do not reside or attend school in NC-14 may join a team if at least half of the team members meet district eligibility requirements.

App Guidelines

• Apps can be built on any platform (PC, web, tablet, mobile, robot, Raspberry Pi, etc.).
• Students may code using any programming language (Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, block coding, etc.).
• There are no restrictions on themes or topics at the national level.
• The app must be accompanied by a video demonstration, typically a screen recording with a voice-over.

How to Submit

1. Register & Check Eligibility – Students must register through the official Congressional App Challenge portal.
2. Build Your App – Work individually or in teams to develop a creative and functional app.
3. Record a Video – Submit a video explaining and demonstrating the app.
4. Submit by October 30, 2025 – All applications must be completed and submitted by 12 PM EST.

Judging & Recognition

Each participating Member of Congress will select one winning app to represent their district. The winner will receive recognition and may be invited to showcase their app in Washington, D.C in April 2026.

Ready to Compete?

Visit the official Congressional App Challenge website to register and start coding!

**Before May 1st, pre-registration can be found here.

Questions? Contact Stephen Miller at stephen.miller@mail.house.gov.