Verizon Frontline launches nationwide App Developer Challenge to drive innovation for first responders

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon Frontline (VZ) launched the Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge, a nationwide contest inviting developers to build mobile apps for first responders.

The contest runs in three phases: Phase 1 call for entry from Oct 28, 2025 to Apr 2, 2026; Phase 2 judging and semi-finalist outreach from Apr 3, 2026 to May 14, 2026; and Phase 3 winner announcement posted between May 14, 2026 and Jun 30, 2026. One grand prize of $25,000 will be awarded. Three semi-finalists will be invited to join the Verizon Frontline Innovation Program and present in New York City with travel provided.

The challenge supports Verizon Frontline’s multi-decade focus on delivering connectivity and solutions for public safety. Entry details and rules are available at www.verizon-app-challenge.com.

NEW YORK, Oct. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon Frontline is calling on developers from across the nation to create new mobile applications to help first responders and public safety agencies operate more safely and efficiently. The Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge is a nationwide contest that will award one grand prize winner a $25,000 cash prize for the most innovative app idea.

The challenge is the latest initiative from the Verizon Frontline Innovation Program, which focuses on developing and advancing new technologies for public safety.

The contest will feature a three-phase structure:

Phase 1: Call for Entry (October 28, 2025 – April 2, 2026): Developers can submit their app idea by uploading a PDF, PPT, or other accepted file format.

Phase 2: Judging and Winner Outreach (April 3, 2026 – May 14, 2026): A panel of judges will review all submissions and select three semi-finalists. These semi-finalists will be invited to become a part of the Verizon Frontline Innovation Program and present their app concept at a live event in New York City, with all travel accommodations provided.

Phase 3: Winner Announcement (May 14, 2026 – June 30, 2026): The grand prize winner will be announced and posted on the contest microsite.

"Great ideas can come from anywhere. The Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge is a unique opportunity for the developer community to contribute to the safety and effectiveness of our first responders," said Maggie Hallbach, President, Verizon Frontline. "We're looking for innovative ideas that leverage the power of mobile technology and connectivity to address the critical needs of public safety professionals on the front lines and the communities they proudly serve across the country."

For over three decades, Verizon Frontline has been committed to delivering an advanced network and solutions designed for public safety. This long-standing commitment helps ensure first responders have the mission-critical connectivity and cutting-edge solutions required to achieve their life-saving missions. The Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge underscores this ongoing commitment.

For more information on the Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge, including eligible and non-eligible contestants, and to submit an entry, please visit the official contest site at www.verizon-app-challenge.com.

About Verizon Frontline

Verizon Frontline is the advanced network and technology built for first responders – developed over three decades of partnership with public safety officials and agencies on the front lines – to meet their unique and evolving needs. For more information, visit our website.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores.

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Media contact: 
Eric Durie
eric.durie@verizon.com

FAQ

What is the Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge and who can enter (VZ)?

A nationwide contest run by Verizon Frontline inviting developers to submit mobile app ideas that help first responders; eligibility details are on the contest site.

What are the entry dates for the Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge (VZ)?

Phase 1 call for entry runs from Oct 28, 2025 through Apr 2, 2026.

How much is the grand prize and what do semi-finalists receive in the VZ challenge?

The grand prize is $25,000; three semi-finalists will be invited to join the Verizon Frontline Innovation Program and present in New York City with travel provided.

When will Verizon Frontline (VZ) announce the winners of the app challenge?

Judging and outreach occur from Apr 3, 2026 to May 14, 2026, and the winner will be announced and posted on the contest microsite by Jun 30, 2026.

What file formats can developers use to submit entries to the VZ app challenge?

Developers can submit app ideas by uploading a PDF, PPT, or other accepted file formats as specified on the contest site.

Where can developers find official rules and submit an entry for the Verizon Frontline App Developer Challenge (VZ)?

Official rules, eligibility, and submission instructions are available at www.verizon-app-challenge.com.