Arizona’s Launchpad for the National Geographic Slingshot Challenge

You have the idea. We have the tools. Together, we’ll slingshot the planet forward.

Start Your Submission
Watch Past Winners

Strong TIES is the official Arizona State Representative. We provide mentorship, technology, and storytelling workshops.

Clean the Air
Restore the Ocean
Protect Nature
Reduce Waste
Climate Change

The Path to $10,000

Identify the Issue

Look at your community. What environmental challenge needs a solution?

Design the Solution

Use STEAM and system-thinking to create an innovative fix.

Tell the Story

Work with Strong TIES mentors to script and film a 1- minute video.

Submit & Win

Enter the global challenge for a chance at $10,000 in
funding and an invitation to D.C.

Need help with your entry?

Our workshops provide the tools and guidance to turn your idea into a professional submission.
Inquire About a Workshop
REGISTER TODAY!

Slingshot Challenge in the Box Summer Camp 2025 🌎

Four Days of STEAM-Powered Environmental Innovation!

Slingshot Challenge in the Box (Environmental Focus) Summer Camp, a National Geographic sponsored event. Strong TIES is the state representative for Slingshot Challenge. This FREE intensive and collaborative camp focus is on creative technologies that lead to submissions to the National Geographic Slingshot Challenge competition. For ages 13-18.

💡 Monday, July 7: Systems Detective Day, “Mapping Our Environmental World”
💡 Tuesday, July 8: Innovation Lab Day, “Design Solutions That Matter”
💡 Wednesday, July 9: Digital Storytelling Day, “Transform Ideas into Compelling Stories”
💡 Thursday, July 10: Showcase, “Present Your STEAM-Powered Solutions”

“Mapping Our Environmental World”

The goal is to empower students to craft compelling Slingshot Challenge entries to address pressing social environmental issues affecting air quality, water, nature, climate, waste among other sustainability issues. 

The Slingshot Challenge, is a global video challenge designed to amplify the voices and ideas of the next generation of planet protectors. Participants will be given the tools to create a one-minute video outlining an innovative solution to a current environmental issue that they’re passionate about. Winning videos will be selected by a panel of judges to receive cash prizes, as well as an invitation to the iconic National Geographic Explorers Festival in Washington, D.C.
 

Strong TIES is a state partner with National Geographic Slingshot Challenge. Our team and partners will work with young people to explore ways they can be protectors of our earth, frame your story and create your project.

The official Slingshot Challenge site is www.slingshotchallenge.org to learn, gain resources and register for Feb. 2026 submission.

ARIZONA YOUTH LED PROJECTS

Jayden's, Microplastics

 

Vernon III, Poaching

 

Vivian, Advocacy​

Natalia, Deforestation

 

Ready to change the world?

Visit Official Website