About ICS

Transforming education through
challenge-based learning

We're changing the game in education. Since 2012, we've helped thousands of students discover their potential through meaningful competitions and hands-on challenges.

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Our Mission

To make learning an exciting challenge rather than a required chore.

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Our Vision

An education system that embraces challenge-based learning as a key tool to motivate, inspire, and nurture student learning.

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Our Approach

We design, facilitate and manage competitions that are rigorous yet accessible, with clear pathways for students to grow and succeed at every level. We nurture a community of students, teachers, and parents who are excited about learning and celebrate excellence in all fields.

Our Story

Founded in 2012 by Joshua Neubert, an MIT trained Planetary Scientist turned education entrepreneur, the Institute of Competition Sciences was born from a simple observation: students thrive when learning is framed as a challenge rather than a chore.

What started as a simple consulting business has grown into a comprehensive platform supporting hundreds of competitions across STEM, civics, arts, and more. We've partnered with schools, nonprofits, and corporations to create opportunities that inspire and empower students nationwide.

Today, ICS serves as both a competition host and a resource hub—providing tools, training, and support to bring challenge-based learning to students across the world. Whether you're a student looking for your next challenge, a teacher trying to engage your classroom, a school administrator looking to increase student outcomes, or an industry leader looking to expand your workforce development efforts, ICS provides the platform for you.

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Students actively building and creating in hands-on learning environment

Our Values

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Equity & Access

Every student deserves the opportunity to participate, regardless of their school's resources or their family's income.

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Educational Excellence

Our competitions are designed by educators to align with standards and support meaningful learning outcomes.

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Community

We foster connections between students, educators, and organizations passionate about challenge-based learning.