Mackenzie Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Ryan Mackenzie, representing the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos in Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District, announced that applications are now open for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge — a nationwide competition designed to promote STEM education and encourage innovation among middle and high school students. 

“Building STEM skills among our youth is critical to the future of our country,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “Younger Americans will one day take a leading role in driving technological progress and retaining our nation’s leadership position in STEM. This competition gives young people the chance to showcase their creativity and technical skills while preparing them to become the innovators of tomorrow. I am glad to invite students from across the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos to participate in the Congressional App Challenge and demonstrate the incredible talent we have in our region.” 

The competition is open to all middle and high school students in Pennsylvania’s 7th Congressional District. Students may participate individually or in teams of up to four. No prior coding experience is required, making the Challenge widely accessible. 

Submissions are due by October 30, 2025, and must include an original app, a demonstration video, and a brief project description. Winners will have their app displayed in the U.S. Capitol, featured on the official Congressional App Challenge website, and receive an invitation to a national celebration in Washington, D.C. Additional information on the Congressional App Challenge can be found on Mackenzie’s website.