Samsung Electronics America has revealed the names of 50 State Winners in its prestigious Samsung Solve for Tomorrow STEM competition, where participants vie for a share of $2 million in prize
February 22, 2024
These State Winners, hailing from public middle and high schools across the nation, have each earned a Samsung technology prize package valued at $12,000. They now advance to compete for the title of National Winner, with three schools standing to win $100,000 each for their projects. In total, Samsung will distribute over $2 million in prizes to participating schools this year.
The State Winners were selected from a pool of 300 State Finalists, all of whom submitted detailed lesson plans outlining how they intend to utilize STEM to address critical community issues. Themes of sustainability, accessibility, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship were prevalent in the proposed solutions, reflecting the innovative spirit of Gen Z student innovators.
Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a nationwide initiative aimed at empowering students in grades 6–12 to tackle local challenges using STEM principles. By fostering problem-based learning, environmental stewardship, and entrepreneurship, the competition encourages students to develop tangible solutions with real-world impact.
Ann Woo, Head of Corporate Citizenship at Samsung Electronics America, emphasized the students’ commitment to addressing societal issues through innovation. Approximately one-third of the finalists focused on public health, while an equal proportion aimed to promote environmental sustainability. Other prevalent themes included accessibility, public safety, and agriculture.
Nearly half of the student projects showcased the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and robotics, demonstrating a forward-looking approach to problem-solving. Many entries also displayed elements of entrepreneurship and design thinking, highlighting the students’ potential to create lasting solutions beyond the competition.
In the upcoming phases of the competition, State Winners will produce a three-minute video showcasing their projects with support from Samsung. Mentors from Samsung will guide the student teams as they develop their prototypes. Additionally, special awards will be presented for sustainability innovation and entrepreneurship, with opportunities for national recognition and additional prizes.
Since its inception in 2010, Samsung Solve for Tomorrow has played a vital role in promoting interest, proficiency, and diversity in STEM education. By providing resources and recognition to thousands of schools across the United States, the program aims to cultivate a skilled workforce and informed citizens for the future.