First lady Melania Trump is leading a new initiative by the Trump administration to build interest and expertise in artificial intelligence.
In a video on Tuesday, she announced the launch of the Presidential AI Challenge, inviting every student in the U.S. from kindergarten to 12th grade to complete a project involving the study, development, or use of an AI method or tool.
The contest is also open to educators, who can submit creative approaches to teaching or using AI technologies in K-12 learning.
“Now I pass the torch of innovation to you,” Trump said. “Just as America once led the world into the skies, we are poised to lead again. This time, in the age of AI.”
Why It Matters
Trump has previously embraced technology through her creation of an AI-powered audiobook. She has also advocated for online safety through her support of the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which targets deepfakes typically made with assistance from AI.
What To Know
President Donald Trump signed an executive order in April, which directed the administration to establish the Presidential AI Challenge.
The administration said the challenger will prepare students for an AI-assisted workforce, “propelling our Nation to new heights of scientific innovation and economic achievement.”
Participants who are selected as National Champions at the elementary level receive $10,000 for their school, homeschool, or community group. National Champions at the middle school, high school and educator level receive $10,000 per team member.
What People Are Saying
First lady Melania Trump, in a video: “The President’s National Artificial Intelligence Challenge invites every student in America from kindergarten to 12th grade to unleash their imagination and showcase the spirit of American innovation. Our educators will guide and empower you through this process to build a brighter, stronger future for us all.”
Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Michael Kratsios, in a Fox News interview: “Wherever you go in your professional career, whether you want to be a doctor, whether you want to be a lawyer, whether you want to work in law enforcement, you will be leveraging these tools in the future. So this Presidential AI Challenge affords you the opportunity to work with these tools, and develop great projects, and have hands-on experience, so you can go off into the workforce with the tools that you need to succeed in the new economy.”
What Happens Next
Registration for the Presidential AI Challenge is now open at ai.gov. The deadline for submission is January 20, 2026.
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