Verizon Frontline launched its second annual App Developer Challenge on October 28, 2026, National First Responders Day, seeking mobile applications that help first responders operate more safely and effectively. The nationwide contest offers a $25,000 grand prize and runs through April 2, 2027.
The challenge calls on developers, engineers, and tech innovators to design apps that leverage mobile connectivity and advanced technologies to address critical operational challenges faced by public safety agencies. It follows a successful first year that showcased impactful solutions from student innovators and developers, including the winning AI-powered drone intelligence app Apex Eye, created by Rian Karim. All three finalists from the first year joined the Verizon Frontline Innovation Program to further develop their solutions alongside public safety and industry partners.
The competition has three phases. Phase 1, the call for entry, runs from October 28, 2026, to April 2, 2027, during which developers nationwide can submit app concepts and proposals detailing how their solution addresses public safety needs. Phase 2 involves judging and finalist selection by a panel of public safety experts and technology leaders. Phase 3 is a live finals event during the week of May 18, 2027, at the National Law Enforcement Museum in Washington, D.C., where three finalists will present their concepts to public safety leaders and the $25,000 grand prize winner will be announced.
“Following the remarkable ingenuity we saw in our first year, we are thrilled to bring back the Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge,” said Cory Davis, Vice President, Verizon Frontline. “First responders face complex challenges every day, and providing them with innovative, mission-critical mobile tools is essential. We look forward to seeing how this year’s participants leverage modern technology to support those who serve and protect our communities.”
The challenge reflects Verizon’s broader commitment to supporting first responders and communities as they prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural disasters. Anchored by the larger Community Disaster Resilience Initiative, the App Developer Challenge and programs like the Verizon Community Disaster Resilience Innovation Accelerator work in tandem to help future-proof communities. Together, these programs help ensure Verizon isn’t just responding to today’s emergencies, but is actively investing in the resilience technology of tomorrow.
The contest is open to developers across the United States. For contest guidelines, official rules, eligibility criteria, and submission instructions, visit www.verizon-app-challenge.com. More information about Verizon Frontline’s commitment to public safety is available at verizon.com/frontline. The announcement was originally published by Verizon; Read the original press release.
