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MAKERS of Change Challenge Calls on AZ High Schools to Build Assistive Tech for Kids with Disabilities
Applications open now; teams have five weeks to design real-world solutions
PHOENIX (July 30, 2026) — Southwest Human Development is inviting Arizona high school STEM, coding and robotics teams to put their skills to work for a good cause. The nonprofit's ninth annual MAKERS of Change Assistive Technology Challenge kicks off Aug. 24, and applications are open now for schools and after-school programs across the state.
The Challenge asks teams of three to five students to design “real-world” assistive technology solutions that improve the lives of young children with disabilities. Any Arizona public, private or charter high school or an after-school program or club focused on STEM can take part, with an adult instructor serving as the team's point of contact.
Five weeks. One deadline. Teams have until Sept. 25 to submit a digital poster and video outlining their solution. Volunteer judges from across the Valley will then score submissions in early October, and finalists will present their work in person on Oct. 23.
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Finalist teams are eligible to win cash prizes ranging from $150 to $500 across 10 categories.
Community volunteers play a central role, too. Mentors are needed for one-hour virtual coaching sessions with participating classes, and judges are needed to review and score student projects. Both roles are virtual and require only a few hours.
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Key dates:
Aug. 14 — High school/club applications due
Aug. 21 — Volunteer mentor applications due
Aug. 24 — Challenge begins
Sept. 8-11 — Volunteer mentors meet with teams
Sept. 21 — Volunteer judge applications due
Sept. 25 — Challenge ends; teams submit poster and video
Oct. 1-6 — Volunteer judges review submissions
Oct. 23 — In-person finalist presentations
High schools and clubs can apply at swhd.org/makersofchange. Those interested in volunteering as a mentor or judge can also apply through the same page.
This year's Challenge is made possible with support from onsemi, Avnet, Lockton, Applied Materials and MACU.
For more information, contact Louann Phillips, special events manager, at (602) 361-3785 or lophillips@swhd.org
About Southwest Human Development
Southwest Human Development is Arizona's largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development, serving children and families through programs in health, education and family support. www.swhdaz.org
