Rep. Mike Kelly Announces Launch of 2026 Congressional App Challenge

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) announced the opening of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for middle and high school students in Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District. This annual competition encourages students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by creating and showcasing their own software applications.

"The Congressional App Challenge offers local students a chance to showcase their creativity and technical skills," said Rep. Kelly. "I am continually impressed by the talent and ingenuity of our students, and I look forward to seeing the innovative apps they develop this year."

The 2025 winner was Giovanni Di Domenico of Cranberry Township, Butler County.

Competition Details:

Eligibility: Open to all middle and high school students residing or attending school in Pennsylvania's 16th Congressional District.
Submission Deadline: October 26, 2026.

Students are encouraged to register early to receive updates and resources.

How to Participate:

• Register for the competition at: www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us
• Develop an original app on any platform (e.g., mobile, web, desktop).
• Submit the app along with a demonstration video and required documentation by the submission deadline.

The winning app from Pennsylvania's 16th District will be featured on the Congressional App Challenge website and displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building. Winners will also be invited to the #HouseOfCode celebration in Washington, D.C., where they can showcase their app to Members of Congress and the tech community.

For more information, please contact Julie Swartfager, Director of Constituent Services, at [email protected].

Learn more about the competition at Kelly.House.Gov/Services/Congressional-App-Challenge and at www.congressionalappchallenge.us