Birmingham, AL – Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced the start of the 2023 Congressional App Challenge (CAC) for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. The competition challenges students in middle school and high school to create their own original app, and is intended to boost engagement in computer science and STEM among America’s youth. The winner for the 7th Congressional District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will be featured on CongressionalAppChallenge.us. The winning app will also be eligible to be on display in the U.S. Capitol along with other winners from across the country. Submissions are due by November 1, 2023.

“Our 21st century economy is constantly evolving with the advancement of new technologies. In order to keep up with the jobs of tomorrow, it is critical that we give our students opportunities to enhance their skills in STEM and computer science,” said Rep. Sewell. “I love this challenge because it empowers our students to think big, be creative, and build something of their own. I cannot wait to see the apps that our students submit!”

Recognizing the power of STEM and computer science to foster economic growth and innovation, Congress created the CAC in 2015 to encourage students to pursue these critical skills and recognize them for their efforts. To maintain America’s competitiveness, it is crucial that the United States invests in our youth now and helps them acquire these valuable skills.

The App Challenge accepts computer programs (or apps) written in any programming language, for any platform (desktop/PC, web, mobile, raspberry Pi, etc.).

The Challenge’s submission portal is now open. Students can register and submit their applications until November 1, 2023. The competition is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of coding experience.

Students can find more information at sewell.house.gov/app-challenge and submit their app at www.congressionalappchallenge.us/.