The Eco Innovation Challenge empowers students to turn big ideas into real solutions for people and the planet. Students will work individually or in teams of 2-4 students to develop an innovation that addresses one Eco Innovation Challenge Pillars, using a platform for student innovation to research, develop, and share their concept.
There is no cost to register for this challenge.
All students in grades 6-12 in the Greater Houston Area are invited to participate in this challenge as individuals or as a team of up to 2-4 students!
An adult coach is required for each registered individual or team.
Registration
Team Bio
Innovation Portfolio
Choose your pillar
Every entry starts by selecting one Eco Innovation Challenge Pillar—then narrowing to a sub-pillar (area of concentration). Use the examples below as inspiration or propose your own idea within the pillar.
How to proceed
Designing innovative systems and structures that safeguard our environment and communities.
Sub-pillars and project examples:
Creating resource-smart solutions that preserve our planet for generations to come.
Sub-pillars and project examples:
Human-centered problem solving: Identify users, define a clear problem within a chosen pillar, and apply design thinking to guide the solution.
Evidence-based innovation: Design a prototype or concept, gathering data or feedback to demonstrate feasibility and impact.
Clear communication: Craft a compelling innovation. Teams will explain the solution, its benefits, and next steps.
Collaboration & leadership: Practice teamwork, project planning, and ethical decision-making while reflecting on sustainability impact.
Top Innovations in each division tier will receive a scholarship to the program of their choosing:
OR
Honorable Mentions will receive:
Kickstart your students’ eco-innovation journey with a free, 1-hour hands-on workshop led by the STEM Innovation in Action team—right at your school or organization. We bring guided activities, expert tips, and all materials needed to help students draft their first project concepts and Submission Framework.
Toolkit includes: Lesson launch slides, student planner, rubric, and submission templates.
11.59 P.M. CT
Help empower the next generation of innovators. As a judge, you’ll help students design human-centered, eco-focused solutions through our platform for student innovation, mentorship, and a public showcase at Space Center Houston.
Eligibility: Environmental/STEM professionals, educators, industry operators, or product designers.
Time Commitment: ~4–6 hours within a 2-week window to review assigned entries in Award Force.
This year’s challenge engaged over 200 students from across the region, highlighting their creativity, research, and problem-solving skills. Through their projects, students demonstrated how young people can use STEM to imagine practical solutions with the potential to strengthen communities, support environmental resilience, and inspire a more sustainable future.
Congratulations to all Eco Innovation Challenge participants and to this year’s award winners.
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