Students Drive Community Impact with AI in Samsung’s 16th Annual STEM Competition

Samsung Electronics America announced the launch of the 16th annual Solve for Tomorrow (SFT) competition, the company’s flagship STEM education initiative designed to empower U.S. students in grades 6–12 to leverage science, technology, engineering, and math skills to address real-world challenges in their communities.

Building on 15 years of impact in classrooms nationwide, this year’s competition will award 500 schools across the U.S. with prizes — a 67% increase from last year’s program. To date, $29 million has been awarded in Samsung technology and classroom resources to more than 6,000 schools in the U.S. through Solve for Tomorrow.

Winning teams can earn up to $100,000 in Samsung technology and classroom resources for their school, contributing to a total prize pool of $2 million, along with access to mentorship and other program benefits.

Equipping the Next Generation for the AI Era

Around the world, the use of artificial intelligence has surged over the past year, with AI emerging as a powerful tool to address real-world challenges — from improving public health to expanding accessibility and strengthening disaster response. Recognizing its potential, Samsung is focused on ensuring young people and educators have the skills and knowledge to use AI responsibly and creatively.

This year’s Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition emphasizes hands-on learning with a stronger focus on AI, framed through new global themes: Environmental Sustainability via Technology and Social Change Through Sports & Technology. By equipping both students and teachers with training, resources, and mentorship, Samsung is preparing the next generation to apply AI and STEM skills in ways that create meaningful impact in their schools and communities.

All participating educators will also gain access to Samsung’s Teacher Academy, offering free professional development in AI, design thinking, entrepreneurship, and storytelling.

A Legacy of Innovation and Community Impact

15th Annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Pitch & Reveal Event on Monday, April 28th, 2025 in Washington. (Joy Asico-Smith/AP Content Services for Samsing Solve for Tomorrow)

Since its inception, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow has become a global movement, engaging 2.9 million students across 68 countries. Over the past 15 years, the program has equipped young people with tools to think critically, solve complex challenges, and inspire change — regardless of whether they ultimately pursue STEM careers.

In the U.S., where the program originated, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow has fostered a growing community of student innovators, educators, and mentors dedicated to building a brighter, more inclusive future through technology.