The National Innovator Challenge (NIC) provides a unique platform for K-12 students across the United States to showcase their innovative ideas, apps, and prototypes. This challenge encourages creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking while giving participants an opportunity to earn recognition and advance to global platforms like the Global Innovation Challenge.
Why Participate?
- Gain invaluable feedback from industry and academic experts.
- Develop real-world skills in innovation and teamwork.
- Join a community of like-minded young innovators.
Competition Process
Participants create and submit innovative projects such as ideas, apps, business plans, and/or prototypes. These projects are evaluated by a panel of experts who provide constructive feedback. Finalists are invited to a live virtual event where they present their projects, compete for awards, and may qualify for further challenges.
Highlights:
- Open to individual students or teams of up to three members.
- Projects can improve upon existing solutions or present entirely new ideas.
- Participants are encouraged to document their journey, including design and testing processes.
Visit NIC Website for full details and submission guidelines.
Judging Criteria
Submissions are evaluated using a comprehensive rubric focusing on creativity, problem-solving, and impact. The full rubric can be found in the Student Handbook on the NIC WebsiteParticipate
Website: https://nationalinnovatorchallenge.org/
Managing Organization: Hewitt Learning
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Eligibility:
- Open to students aged 5-19 who have not yet graduated from high school.
- Individual or team submissions are accepted, with a maximum of three members per team.
- At least one team member must reside in the United States.
For current year registration details and deadlines, visit the NIC Website or email NIC@hewittlearning.org.