What is EcoInnovate?
EcoInnovate is a nationwide environmental innovation competition that empowers students in grades 7–12 across the United States to develop creative solutions for a more sustainable future.
Now in its third year, EcoInnovate encourages students to combine research, technology, and creativity to address real-world environmental challenges.
In 2026, we’re challenging students to take innovation one step further: explore technologies that are already making a positive environmental impact, identify their limitations, and design improvements that could make them even more effective.
Because innovation isn’t always about inventing something new. Sometimes, it’s about making something good even better.
Rethink. Improve. Innovate.
Improve an Innovation
Choose a technology that has significantly benefited the environment. Research how it works, understand its environmental impact, and identify one meaningful limitation. Then design an improvement or new feature that addresses that limitation.
Your technology could relate to renewable energy, water conservation, agriculture, recycling, transportation, pollution monitoring, biodiversity, or another environmental area.
Think beyond what exists.
Imagine what it could become.
Research. Design. Propose.
Submit three components:
-
Project Proposal (Maximum 1,000 Words)
Explain the technology, its benefits, the limitation, your proposed improvement, how it works, expected impact, and potential challenges. -
Visual Design
Include at least one diagram, annotated sketch, CAD model, prototype, wireframe, infographic, or other visual. -
Research Sources
Include at least three credible sources supporting your research.
A working prototype or functional app is not required.
From Ideas to Impact
Great ideas begin with curiosity, but meaningful innovation requires research, creativity, and thoughtful problem-solving.
EcoInnovate encourages students to explore real environmental technologies, question their limitations, and develop practical improvements.
Whether your interest lies in engineering, biology, artificial intelligence, computer science, environmental science, or design, this competition is your opportunity to apply your skills to a real-world challenge.
Your idea could be the next step toward a more sustainable future.
Prizes
01
Grand Prize — Headwaters Research Experience
The first-place winner will receive an opportunity to participate in a Research Experience with Headwaters Science Institute. This experience will provide the winner an opportunity to strengthen scientific research skills, explore meaningful research questions, and learn from experienced educators and researchers.
This award reflects EcoInnovate’s mission to help young innovators take their ideas beyond the competition and develop the skills to create meaningful environmental impact.
Additional prizes and special awards may be announced.
Competition Timeline
Competion Launch
Nov 2, 2026
Registration Opens
Nov 2, 2026
Registration Deadline
Dec 20, 2026
SubmissionDeadline
Jan 18, 2027
Judging Period
Jan 19-31 , 2027
Winners Annouced
Feb 5, 2027
How Will Projects Be Evaluated?
Projects will be evaluated across five categories, each worth five points.
Environmental Understanding & Impact
5 Points
Problem Identification
5 Points
Innovation & Creativity
5 Points
Feasibility & Scientific Reasoning
5 Points
Communication & Design
5 Points
Total: 25 Points
A successful project doesn’t need to be complicated.
It needs to be thoughtful, creative, and supported by research.