Congressional App Challenge Announces National App Challenge Day on September 17th

The Congressional App Challenge (CAC), the largest student coding competition in the nation, is proud to announce National App Challenge Day on September 17, 2025. This year’s celebration will feature a historic partnership with Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who are jointly hosting Congressional Hackathon 7.0 inside the U.S. Capitol.

As part of the Congressional Hackathon, Congressional App Challenge alumni will take the stage to present their innovative ideas to improve Congress and civic engagement through technology. These student “App Challengers” will showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills in rapid-fire lightning talks designed to spark collaboration between innovators and lawmakers.

“Congressional App Challenge students represent the future of American innovation,” said Joe Alessi, Program Director of the Congressional App Challenge. “By bringing their voices and ideas directly into the halls of Congress, we’re ensuring the next generation is shaping how our democracy adapts to technology.”

Members of Congress will promote National App Challenge Day and encourage students in their districts to participate in the App Challenge, amplifying the impact of this nationwide initiative. With more than 70,000 alumni since its founding in 2015, the App Challenge has become one of the most bipartisan and impactful STEM programs on Capitol Hill.

Adding to the celebration, the Congressional App Challenge will also unveil its inaugural “25 for ’25: App Challenge Changemakers” list, recognizing 25 extraordinary young alumni who are already making significant contributions in technology, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement

National App Challenge Day marks a milestone moment for the program: a chance to celebrate student achievement, highlight the role of technology in strengthening democracy, and showcase the innovation pipeline being built through the Congressional App Challenge.

About the Congressional App Challenge

The Congressional App Challenge is the official computer science competition of the U.S. House of Representatives. Since its inception, the Challenge has inspired over 70,000 students across all 50 states to code, create, and connect with their Members of Congress. By fostering early exposure to computer science, the Challenge is building the next generation of STEM leaders.

For more information about the Congressional App Challenge, visit www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us.