The Conrad Spirit of Innovation Challenge is the world’s first global youth competition to integrate STEM education with entrepreneurship and business innovation. Supported by authoritative institutions such as NASA and officially recognized by MIT’s RSI (Research Science Institute), the Conrad Challenge has become a highly respected platform for young innovators worldwide.

Participants work in teams with like-minded peers to break conventional thinking and develop creative, real-world business solutions. These solutions may include business plans, STEM-based products, and innovative services designed to address complex scientific, technological, and social challenges.

Top finalist teams are invited to travel to the United States to attend the Conrad Innovation Summit, where they gain access to sponsor-backed opportunities such as investment prospects, patent support, business services, scholarships, and—most importantly—a significant advantage in applications to top international universities.

Competition Timeline

Phase 1: Activation Phase

The Activation Phase marks the beginning of students’ journey toward collaboration, innovation, and global impact.

Teams brainstorm ideas, refine their concepts, and take the first critical step in transforming creativity into entrepreneurial action.

• Start Date: August 28, 2025
• End Date: October 30, 2025

Phase 2: Innovation Phase

The Innovation Phase is conducted online and serves as the platform where teams turn ideas into reality. Participants design, build, and share comprehensive plans for their innovative solutions.

• Start Date: October 31, 2025
• End Date: January 8, 2026
• Fee: USD 499 per team member

Phase 3: Innovation Summit (Finals)

Finalist teams are invited to a four-day, in-person Innovation Summit held at Space Center Houston, Texas.

During the summit, teams:

• Deliver formal presentations to expert judges
• Showcase their innovations at a public exposition
• Participate in networking and mentorship sessions

The event concludes with a prestigious Awards Ceremony.

• Dates: April 22–25, 2026
• Location: Space Center Houston, Texas
• Fee: USD 499 per participant
• Travel and accommodation are not included

Why the Conrad Challenge Stands Out

Official International Recognition

The Conrad Challenge is an officially NASA-recognized global competition and is also acknowledged by MIT RSI, making it especially valuable for students aspiring to elite institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Global Influence and Industry Support

Renowned organizations including Dell Technologies, Kennedy Space Center, and the Bezos Family Foundation provide finalists with access to:

• Investment opportunities
• Patent and intellectual property support
• Internships
• Scholarships and business resources

Strengthening College Applications & Essential Skills

The Conrad Challenge has been ranked by the international college-planning organization CollegeVine as one of the top three extracurricular activities that most enhance college admissions competitiveness.

Participants develop a wide range of critical skills, including:

• Innovative and entrepreneurial thinking
• English communication and presentation skills
• Team collaboration and leadership
• Business fundamentals
• Public speaking and pitching

Eligibility Requirements

• Competition Language: English
• Team Format: 2–5 students per team
• Age Requirement: 13–18 years old
• Participants may join from any location worldwide
• Teams may consist of classmates, siblings, camp peers, or any eligible students
• Students who participated in previous years may reapply if they still meet age and eligibility requirements

China Division:

• Middle School Group: Grades 7–9
• High School Group: Grades 10–12

Challenge Categories

Teams must select one of the following innovation tracks:

• Water Challenge
• Health and Nutrition
• Energy and Environment
• Cyber Technology and Security
• Aerospace and Aviation