Samsung Solve for Tomorrow
What This Grant Funds
Samsung Solve for Tomorrow is a national STEM competition that invites students in grades 6-12 to develop technology-based solutions to real community problems. State winners receive $20,000 in Samsung technology. National finalists receive up to $100,000. Projects combining STEM, coding, and community problem-solving — including climate and environmental solutions — are ideal.
Who Is Eligible in Illinois
All Illinois public school teachers in grades 6-12 can enter their classrooms. There is no school eligibility requirement — any Illinois public school teacher can start a team. Each state typically crowns one state winner who advances to the national competition.
Funding Amounts
Illinois state winners receive approximately $20,000 in Samsung technology (devices, equipment). National finalists receive $50,000–$100,000. There are also semifinalist awards. All entries receive classroom resources.
How Forward Education Products Qualify
Solve for Tomorrow projects that use micro:bit physical computing and MicroChat AI tools to address real community challenges are strongly competitive. For example: students building a climate monitoring system with micro:bits to address local environmental issues, or developing an AI-assisted accessibility tool. Forward Education can provide curriculum support and alignment documentation for competing teams.
How to Apply and Key Deadlines
Registration opens annually in fall at Samsung's Solve for Tomorrow website. Teachers register their classroom, students develop a project, and submit a video entry. State winners are selected by Samsung reviewers. No application fee — the barrier to entry is simply creating and documenting the project.
Keep in Mind
Solve for Tomorrow is a competition, not a traditional grant. Success requires strong student engagement and a compelling community problem. Projects with measurable impact and authentic community partnerships tend to advance furthest. Start ideating early in the fall semester.
