Samsung has announced 500 US schools as semi-finalists in its 16th annual Solve for Tomorrow competition. The program encourages students in grades 6 to 12 to use STEM skills to solve problems they see in their own communities. Teams were selected from thousands of entries across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

This year, many students are using new technologies, including AI, robotics, and sustainable tech. Some of the projects include AI tools to help care for older people, drones to help in emergencies during natural disasters, and AR experiences to protect cultural heritage.

Technology played a big role in the competition. About 83% of the projects used emerging tech in some form. Nearly 40% of teams worked with AI or machine learning, while others used 3D printing and IoT tools.

Image via Samsung

All 500 teams will receive support to continue building their ideas. One hundred teams will earn a $10,000 prize package of Samsung technology and move on to the next round. The remaining 400 teams will receive a $1,000 grant. Altogether, Samsung is offering $2 million in prizes this year.

Entrepreneurs Mark Cuban and Emma Grede are joining the program as the first Solve for Tomorrow ambassadors. They will help students and teachers learn how to use AI responsibly.

Also, the top 100 teams will create short videos to explain their projects. With help from Samsung mentors, students will prepare for the next judging round. The competition will continue through 2026, ending with national winners and major prizes.

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