Deadline: 27-May-2026
Coolest Projects Online, run by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, is a global online showcase that invites young people aged 18 and under to share their digital technology projects with a worldwide audience. The initiative welcomes projects using code, computers, and digital tools across a wide range of creative and technical categories.
Overview of Coolest Projects Online
Coolest Projects Online is an international digital making showcase designed to celebrate creativity, problem-solving, and innovation among young people. The programme provides a safe, inclusive platform for participants to present technology-based projects and receive feedback from expert judges.
Types of Digital Projects Accepted
The showcase welcomes a broad range of digital technology projects, including:
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Artificial intelligence and machine learning projects
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Scratch-based creations
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Mobile applications
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Web-based projects and websites
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Games and interactive experiences
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Hardware and physical computing projects
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Advanced programming and software development projects
Any project that uses code, computers, or digital technology in any form is eligible.
Who Is Eligible to Participate?
Participation is open to any young person aged 18 or under, from anywhere in the world. Participants may enter as individuals or in teams of up to five members. Young people aged 13 and above may register their own projects. Projects created by participants under 13 years old must be registered by an adult mentor. All skill levels are accepted, from beginners to advanced digital creators.
Safeguarding and Content Requirements
All projects must be safe, inclusive, and appropriate for a global audience. Projects must not include bad language, graphic or realistic violence, discrimination, hateful content, suggestive or mature themes, scams, commercial or promotional content, unmodified copied work, or non-digital creations. Adult mentors are encouraged to review safeguarding guidance, carefully check submitted projects, and complete safeguarding training to ensure participant safety.
Project Presentation and Technical Requirements
Projects must be presented in English so judges can understand them. Participants who are not fluent in English may use translations, subtitles, written cards, or online translation tools. All project links and videos must be public, comments must be disabled, and content must be accessible for review. Video submissions are required for most projects, except Scratch projects, and must clearly show both the project and the code used to build it.
How to Enter Coolest Projects Online
Participants should design and complete a digital technology project, ensure it meets safeguarding and content requirements, prepare a public project link and video where required, and submit the project through the Coolest Projects Online platform. Adult mentors must complete the registration process for participants under 13 and ensure safeguarding responsibilities are met.
How Projects Are Judged
After submission, each project is reviewed before appearing in the online gallery. Judges assess projects based on coolness, technical complexity, presentation and communication, and design and usability. Judges provide written feedback to help participants learn and improve their skills.
Key Dates and Timeline
The online gallery opens on 20 February 2026. Submissions close on 27 May 2026. Selected projects are highlighted by VIP judges during a global livestream on 24 June 2026. After the livestream, all participants receive feedback and participation certificates.
Why Coolest Projects Online Matters
Coolest Projects Online encourages digital literacy, creativity, and confidence in young people. The programme provides global visibility, constructive feedback, and recognition for young digital makers, helping inspire future careers in technology and innovation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Participants should avoid submitting projects with restricted or private links, unclear demonstrations of code, inappropriate content, or incomplete explanations. Failing to meet safeguarding requirements or missing submission deadlines may result in disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can enter Coolest Projects Online?
Any young person aged 18 or under from anywhere in the world.
Can beginners submit projects?
Yes. All skill levels are welcome.
Do projects have to be in English?
Yes, but translations and subtitles are allowed.
Are team entries allowed?
Yes, teams of up to five participants may enter.
Is a video required?
Yes, for most projects, except Scratch projects.
What happens after submission?
Projects are reviewed, displayed in the online gallery, judged, and eligible for livestream highlights.
Conclusion
Coolest Projects Online by the Raspberry Pi Foundation offers a global, inclusive platform for young people to showcase their digital technology projects, receive expert feedback, and celebrate creativity. By promoting safe participation and digital innovation, the programme helps nurture the next generation of tech creators.
For more information, visit Raspberry Pi Foundation.
