First Lady Melania Trump on Tuesday launched the Presidential Artificial Intelligence Challenge, a White House–backed contest designed to encourage innovation among U.S. students from kindergarten through 12th grade. In a video announcement, she invited teams to devise AI-powered solutions to community problems, saying the initiative aims to harness “the spirit of American innovation” and prepare the next generation for an AI-driven economy. Under the program, students and educators may submit project proposals until 20 Jan 2026. State champions will be named in March, and national finalists will present their work at the White House during a three-day event in June. National champions will receive $10,000, cloud-computing credits and a Presidential Certificate of Achievement, while all participants will earn certificates. The contest implements Executive Order 14277, signed by President Donald Trump in April to advance AI education. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, the president said the United States is “leading China in AI” and credited the first lady with helping to preserve that advantage. The administration views early exposure to AI tools as critical to maintaining U.S. technological and economic leadership.