First Lady Melania Trump announces US Presidential AI Challenge for K-12 students and educators
National initiative calls on young people and teachers to design AI projects that tackle community challenges.
First Lady Melania Trump announces the launch of the Presidential AI Challenge in a video message
The US government has launched the Presidential AI Challenge, a nationwide initiative designed to equip students and educators with skills in artificial intelligence while encouraging the development of AI-powered solutions to community issues.
The program was established under Executive Order 14277, Advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Education for American Youth, signed by President Trump in April 2025.
National call to students and teachers
The Presidential AI Challenge invites participation from kindergarten through 12th grade students, as well as K-12 educators, across the United States. Student teams will design projects that apply AI tools to local or regional challenges, while educators will focus on classroom innovation through new approaches to teaching AI concepts or using AI-based tools.
According to the official guidebook, the Challenge aims to “foster interest and expertise in AI technology in America’s youth.” Participants will gain early training in the responsible use of AI tools, with the goal of preparing students to be “confident participants in the AI-assisted workforce.”
First Lady Melania Trump announced the initiative in a video message, saying: “The President’s National Artificial Intelligence Challenge invites every student in America—from kindergarten to 12th grade—to unleash their imagination and showcase the spirit of American innovation. Our extraordinary educators will guide and empower you through this process to build a brighter, stronger future for us all.”
Who can take part
The Challenge is divided into four categories: elementary (grades K-5), middle school (grades 6-8), high school (grades 9-12), and educators.
Elementary groups must be led by an educator or community leader and work under direct supervision when using AI tools.
Middle and high school teams will consist of one to four students supported by a supervising adult.
Educators may enter as individuals or teams of up to three, including homeschool educators who can provide proof of eligibility.
Each team must register at the Challenge website and select a project track. Track I involves developing a detailed proposal on how AI could address a community problem. Track II requires teams to build and demonstrate an AI-based solution, while Track III focuses on educators creating teaching approaches or classroom tools using AI.
Certificates, prizes, and White House showcase
All compliant submissions will receive a Presidential Certificate of Participation. Teams that enter the optional competition will be eligible for additional recognition and prizes:
State Champions will receive a Certificate of Achievement, cloud credits, and access to online resources.
Regional Champions will gain further recognition and eligibility for a White House showcase.
National Champions will receive a Presidential Award Certificate, cloud credits, and $10,000 in funding—allocated to schools, community groups, or individual team members depending on category.
Key deadlines for 2025 and 2026
Registration for the Challenge opened today, August 26, 2025. Training, including information sessions and office hours, will begin on September 15. Completed projects must be submitted by January 20, 2026. State Champions will be announced in March, followed by Regional Championships in April, and National Finals in Washington, DC, in June 2026.
Project requirements include a written narrative of at least 500 words, supported by media such as posters, videos, or app demonstrations. Educator teams are expected to submit a video or other digital demonstration of their instructional design or AI-based tool. All submissions must be original, identify the AI tools used, and cite sources for any research or materials.
Secret-shopper note: while the guidebook outlines categories and judging rubrics, the clarity of how AI accuracy will be evaluated varies across tracks. Teams may need to seek further guidance during office hours to ensure compliance.
In her video message, Melania Trump added: “Just as America once led the world into the skies, we are poised to lead again—this time in the age of AI.”
The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026
The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.
Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.
Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.
Winners will be announced on 14 January 2026 as part of an online showcase featuring expert commentary on emerging trends and standout innovation. All winners and finalists will also be featured in our first print magazine, to be distributed at BETT 2026.
To explore categories and submit your entry, visit the ETIH Innovation Awards hub.
