Congress Welcomes the Next Generation of Builders to U.S. Capitol at #HouseOfCode 2026
On April 21–22, the U.S. Capitol once again filled with student developers from across the country as #HouseOfCode returned for its annual celebration of Congressional App Challenge winners. More than 360 students from 48 states and territories traveled to Washington to showcase their work, connect with Members of Congress, and spend two days surrounded by others building at a high level.
#HouseOfCode opened with the STEM Inspiration Fair, where students connected with partners and organizations spanning education, industry, and government. For many, it was an early opportunity to step back from their own projects and see where their skills can lead.
“Talking to people who actually work at Roblox and hearing how they see the platform made me start imagining what it would be like to work there.” — Troye K., NY10
“Seeing the Capitol and being around the event environment was a lot to take in. It was definitely different from anything I had done before.” — Garrett S., IA02
The afternoon continued with Lightning Talks, where a select group of winners shared their perspectives on the future of technology. The conversations reflected how quickly the landscape is shifting, particularly as more students build with AI as a core part of their work.
“I was very happy to see my peers up on stage talking and sharing their areas of interest.” — John B., MI04
“Seeing the Capitol and being around the event environment was a lot to take in. It was definitely different from anything I had done before.” — Garrett S., IA02
Students then gathered in the Capitol Visitor Center for Congressional Keynotes from Members of Congress and program partners, who spoke about the growth of the Congressional App Challenge and the importance of expanding access to STEM education nationwide.
“When Nancy Pelosi walked in during the event, the room’s energy shifted immediately—people got quieter and more attentive because it wasn’t expected to see such a high-profile political figure at a STEM-focused program.
What stuck with me wasn’t just her presence, but the idea that STEM and innovation are being noticed at such high levels. It made the event feel bigger and more meaningful, like the work we’re learning about connects to real-world decisions and impact.” — Weiting W., CA49
The day concluded with the Broadcom Foundation’s CoderConnect Social, where students met fellow winners from across the country, exchanged ideas, and built connections that extended beyond their districts.
“My day really started when I made my first new friend.” — Troye K., NY10
“I felt lucky to capture photos with new friends I had just met. It wasn’t just about taking pictures—it felt like a way of remembering the connections we were starting to build.” — Weiting W., CA49
Day two centered on Student Demonstrations in the Capitol Visitor Center, where winners presented their apps to Members of Congress, congressional staff, and the public. Across two sessions, students walked attendees through the problems they set out to solve and the tools they used to solve them.
“I remember meeting with my district representative and explaining my project and its impact on the community thus far.” — Shivam S., CO05
“Demo Day was very busy and I had a lot of fun. I was nervous at first when people would approach me but it got easier over time and I got some good feedback.” — John B., MI04
Members spent real time at tables, asking follow-ups and digging into how things worked.
New this year, the App Challenge Laureate Ceremony recognized each student on stage as their app was announced and they received a commemorative medal. The ceremony provided a dedicated moment to recognize the work behind each project and the achievement of earning a Congressional App Challenge win.
“It felt surreal, as I could have never imagined getting awarded something at the Capitol.” — Shivam S., CO05
“It was an amazing experience, and I felt very proud to receive the medal, especially after all of the hard work and dedication we have put into this project.” — Aviv C., WA08
Throughout the day, students also had time to explore the Capitol, meet other teams, and see the range of projects being built across the country.
“The biggest moment for me was talking with Roblox. They were interested in my Roblox business and how I think about the platform.” — Garrett S., IA02
“We got to see the House and Senate chambers while they were in session, which was a new experience.” — Aviv C., WA08
“I enjoyed Hack Club and they shared how I can get involved in the future. I plan to participate starting this summer.” — John B., MI04
The projects themselves reflected the direction of student innovation today. Many incorporated AI as a central component, while others focused on accessibility, health, education, and civic engagement. Across the board, students demonstrated a strong understanding not only of how their apps function, but why they matter.
#HouseOfCode 2026 brought together hundreds of students who are already building solutions to real-world challenges and gave them the opportunity to present that work at the highest level. The event continues to highlight both the reach of the Congressional App Challenge and the growing role students are playing in shaping the future of technology.
The Congressional App Challenge would not be possible without the support of our sponsoring organizations. We cannot express enough gratitude to Roblox, Broadcom Foundation, Qualcomm, Infosys Foundation USA, AWS, Apple, Craig Newmark Foundation, theCoderSchool, Meta, Comcast, and CGI for making the #HouseOfCode experience a reality for these incredible students.
The 2026 Congressional App Challenge will launch in May, and students can pre-register here.