Kean Announces Launch of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge

(June 8, 2026) LEBANON BOROUGH, NJ - Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) announced the opening of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge, the official STEM competition of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Officially launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, this nationwide effort allows students to compete against their peers by creating an application (also known as an "app") for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, Raspberry Pi or other devices. Students may use any programming language, such as C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or "block code" and any platform. The Challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in computer science.

The submission portal is now open, and students may register and submit their apps through October 26, 2026 at 12:00 pm ET. Students can compete individually or in teams of up to four. Students must be in middle or high school and either go to school in or be residents of New Jersey's Seventh Congressional District. Each participant may only submit one app and may only compete in one district.

"I encourage any interested middle and high school students from NJ-07 to enter the Challenge," said Congressman Kean. "The Congressional App Challenge is a great opportunity for students solve real-world issues and demonstrate their skills. Every year I am impressed with the innovative and impactful apps that the students develop."

The winning app from New Jersey's 7th District will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol and featured on the official House of Representatives website. Winning students will also be invited to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Reception in Washington, D.C. Runners-up will also be selected for recognition.

Learn more at kean.house.gov/services/congressional-app-challenge-2026 and register for the Congressional App Challenge by visiting congressionalappchallenge.us/students/student-registration/