WASHINGTON – Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL) has released the following information in promotion of First Lady Melania Trump's Presidential AI Challenge. In an effort to maintain American AI dominance and innovation, the First Lady's challenge aims to empower educators and the next generation of students.

BACKGROUND:
The Presidential AI Challenge  is a national challenge where K-12 youth, educators, mentors, and community teams come together to solve real-world problems in their communities using AI-powered solutions with an opportunity to showcase their solutions at a national level. Students and educators of all backgrounds and expertise are encouraged to participate and ignite a new spirit of innovation as we celebrate 250 years of independence and look forward to the next 250 years.

TIMELINE:

• Online registration opens: August 26, 2025
• Project submission deadline: January 20, 2026
• Announcement of State Champions: As soon as March 16, 2026, but no later than April 1, 2026
• State Championship Teams present projects to and answer questions from a panel of judges (five virtual regional events): March 27 - April 13, 2026
• Announcement of Regional Champions: As soon as April 16, 2026, but no later than May 1, 2026
• Regional Champions who are invited to Washington, DC, for the National Finals and three days of AI-focused events will be notified. Selected teams will be notified no later than May 15, 2026
• Projects are judged while the Regional Champions are in Washington, DC June 7-10, 2026

FOR ADDITONAL INFORMATION:

• Watch: First Lady Melania Trump's message about the challenge HERE.
• Read: Presidential AI Challenge Guidebook for Participation HERE.
• Email: AI.Challenge@science.doe.gov 
• Register: HERE.
  

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