CREATESoLA Robotics Mobile App – STEM Play, Anywhere
SoLA Robotics is building a mobile app that turns STEM into a game—guided by our animated robot mascot and powered by the creativity of our students. Users will complete coding challenges, earn digital badges, and unlock real-life rewards. Whether at school or at home, this app brings the joy of robotics to kids everywhere in LA.
What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?
Access to tech and creative industry employment
In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?
Central LA South LA Gateway Cities Long Beach South Bay County of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a countywide benefit) City of Los Angeles (select only if your project has a citywide benefit)
In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?
Research (initial work to identify and understand the problem)
What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?
Too many students fall out of love with STEM because it feels hard, distant, or boring. When tech learning is dry or disconnected from joy, students tune out, especially if they don't see themselves represented in it. In South LA and beyond, we know the issue isn’t interest, it’s access. And when learning stops the moment school ends, we miss opportunities to reinforce what students are building. We need more playful, personalized ways to keep students engaged between classes, camps, and workshops. If we want kids to stay curious, we have to meet them where they are: on their phones, ready to play.
Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.
We’re developing a SoLA Robotics mobile app that combines play, challenge, and storytelling. Students will interact with our robot mascot in a fun, animated environment that lets them:
Solve logic and coding puzzles
Play mini games inspired by real-world STEM
Earn points and badges
Track their learning journey
Unlock real-life rewards like STEM gear or field trip access
The app will sync with our digital platform but can also be used independently. It’s designed for mobile-first learners and built with cultural relevance in mind, from voiceovers to character design.
We’ll involve students in the creative process, from storyboarding to voice testing. This app is about building STEM identity, not just STEM skills. It’s joyful, student-driven, and designed to keep kids learning even after class ends.
When a kid picks up a phone and chooses to code instead of scroll. That’s the shift we’re aiming for.
Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.
Upon success, this app will reach thousands of students who may never set foot in a robotics lab, but who still deserve to feel smart, capable, and creative. We envision it becoming a companion to our SoLA Robotics programs, a launchpad for independent exploration, and a daily reminder that STEM is for them. Over time, we’ll integrate competitions, chat support, and new learning levels, creating a long-term digital companion for tech-curious youth in LA and beyond.
Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?
Direct Impact: 750
Indirect Impact: 2,000