CGI Innovate IT Challenge

Are you a high school student interested in technology and innovation?

The CGI Innovate IT Challenge is a 12-week mobile app competition where teams of high school students design innovative smartphone apps using Thunkable, a drag-and-drop app development platform. Participants will be paired with a CGI mentor, a University of Pittsburgh student mentor, and a sponsor from a local STEM company to gain real-world insight, career guidance, and support throughout the program.

Students will explore technology careers, develop teamwork and public speaking skills, and present their final app creations to a panel of judges for a chance to earn college scholarship funds. No design or programming experience required!

Dates: January 26 – April 3, 2026

Audience: High School Students | Grades 9–12

Location: Weekly Virtual Meetings | Two In-Person Events

This Year’s Challenge in Pittsburgh 

Now in its 7th year, the CGI Innovate IT Challenge continues to inspire innovation and collaboration among students in the Pittsburgh region. The Pittsburgh Technology Council is proud to partner with CGI to expand opportunities for mentorship and STEM engagement. 

The Challenge includes 20 mentor-led hours spread across twelve weeks, with scheduling flexibility for each team. All sessions will take place virtually through Microsoft Teams, managed by CGI mentors. The winning team will receive a $20,000 college scholarship, divided evenly among team members (up to $10,000 per student). 

Please note: All coding will be completed using Thunkable only. 

What do I need to participate in this program? 

1. Be a high school student in good academic standing 
2. Have a computer, tablet, or smartphone 
3. Have access to internet 
4. Have an active email address 
5. Available to engage in virtual sessions for roughly 20 hours over 12 weeks 

Although the program is virtual, you will need to attend the in-person kickoff meeting the week of January 26th, 2026 and in-person final presentation challenge day in April 2026. 

Ready to apply? 

Applications close on January 20th, 2026. 

Are you a STEM professional looking to get involved? 

We’re looking for STEM professionals to support the next generation of innovators! 

As a team sponsor, you’ll join weekly virtual meetings to guide students through the app development process, help them strengthen their public speaking skills, and provide mentorship along the way. Sponsors are also invited to attend two in-person events. 

Interested in serving as a sponsor or as a judge for the final presentation challenge day where students pitch their projects? Reach out to Rafalene Costanza at rcostanza@pghtech.org to learn more.