Introduction

The contest is open to all youth in grades K-12 and to all teachers interested in making their world a better place and learning more about the possibilities of artificial intelligence.  There are three tracks.  Each group will contain 1-4 members and must have a mentor.  Each adult mentor must be an approved 4-H volunteer.  Please contact your local 4-H educator for assistance in finding a mentor or to explore volunteering as a 4-H mentor.

1. Track one: Proposal: create an in-depth proposal on how AI could address a community challenge
   1. Grades K-5
   2. Grades 6-12
2. Track two: Technical/Implementation: build a solution that addresses a community challenge.
   1. Grades K-5
   2. Grades 6-12
3. Track three: Educators Only Best practices – transformative teaching

The Presidential AI Challenge is a national challenge where K-12 youth, educators, mentors, and community teams come together to solve real-world problems in their communities using AI-powered solutions, with an opportunity to showcase their solutions at a national level. Students and educators of all backgrounds and expertise are encouraged to participate and ignite a new spirit of innovation as we celebrate 250 years of independence and look forward to the next 250 years.

For official rules and guidelines visit:

https://www.ai.gov/initiatives/presidential-challenge

• Ignite your imagination and bring your ideas to life with AI.
• Get early exposure to real AI skills that are shaping the future.
• Help make your world a better place.
• Connect with AI and technology experts in your community
• Boost your college or scholarship applications with real-world experience.

Choose to compete for prizes and national recognition.

Implementation Framework for Track one 

Implementation Framework for Track Two

Indiana Educational Standards Addressed  

1. What is the 4-H Presidential AI Challenge?

The challenge invites K–12 youth to explore artificial intelligence through hands-on learning, ethical decision-making, and real-world problem solving.

2. Who can participate in the challenge?

Any youth in grades K–12, along with educators and mentors. Each team must have 1–4 members and an approved 4-H volunteer mentor.

3. Do participants need prior experience with AI or coding?

No prior experience is required. The challenge is designed to be accessible to all skill levels and includes guided activities to support learning and development.

4. What kinds of AI tools will youth explore?

Participants will learn about chatbots, image generators, recommendation systems, and other AI technologies.

5. How do I find a mentor or become one?

Contact your local 4-H educator to be matched with a mentor or to learn how to become an approved 4-H volunteer.

6. Are there different tracks or categories in the challenge?

Yes, there are three tracks, each tailored to different age groups or experience levels. Details are available from your local 4-H office.

7. What are the benefits of participating?

Youth gain digital literacy, problem-solving skills, and national recognition. Teams may also compete for prizes.

8. Where can I learn more about AI before joining?

Visit AI.gov’s Presidential Challenge page or visit some of the links at the bottom of the page.

9. Is this challenge part of a larger national initiative?

Yes, it aligns with the national celebration of 250 years of U.S. independence and encourages innovation for the next 250 years.

10. How do I register or get started?

Reach out to your local 4-H educator or visit the Purdue Extension 4-H website for guidance on forming a team and joining the challenge.

11. When is the Challenge over?

The final submission to AI.gov is due Jan. 20, 2026