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YOUNG INVENTOR CHALLENGE® 

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October 26, 2025 - Registrations & Virtual Submissions Due (REQUIRED)

November 8, 2025 - In-Person Presentations & Awards (OPTIONAL)​

 

A nominal registration fee of $25 is required per participant. 

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The mission of the Young Inventor Challenge® (YIC) is to inspire the next generation to use creativity, critical thinking, and STEAM skills in the invention and innovation process and to connect professionals within the toy and game industry to mentor these young innovators in their design process.

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The annual Young Inventor Challenge® provides an opportunity for children ages 6 to 18 to develop and pitch their original inventions to major toy and game companies, industry professionals, members of the media and general public. This unique and educational experience ignites imagination, creativity and presentation skills like no other, providing a means of taking these inventions to greater heights, with professional critiques from People of Play industry experts.

 

Many of the winning inventions have been licensed by these global companies and can be found on store shelves today!​​

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“Aside from being fun, engaging, and meaningful, the Young Inventor Challenge builds and reinforces sophisticated practices such as critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and leadership,” she said. “These essential skills are needed to be successful in the 21st century.” -Carrie Martinez, Teacher, Palos Heights, IL

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General Questions? Contact - ahren@peopleofplay.com