Call for Entries
2026 Idea Machine
National Science Foundation
Entry submission deadline: 26 October 2018
For more information, go to:
https://www.nsf.gov/news/special_reports/nsf2026ideamachine/index.jsp
For questions, contact:
NSF 2026 Idea Machine
Email: nsf2026IM [at] nsf.gov
The National Science Foundation (NSF) invites entries for the 2026 Idea Machine. The 2026 Idea Machine is a competition to help set the U.S. agenda for fundamental research in science and engineering. This competition is open to researchers, the public, and any other interested stakeholders.
The 2026 Idea Machine is:
- A mechanism to set the stage for breakthrough research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and STEM education through the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026 and beyond;
- A competition to inform the U.S. agenda for fundamental science, engineering, and STEM education research by proposing new “Big Ideas” for future investment by the National Science Foundation (NSF); and
- An opportunity to contribute to NSF’s mission to support basic research that drives the nation's economy, enhances its security, and advances knowledge to sustain U.S. global leadership in science and engineering.
Participants in the 2026 Idea Machine can earn prizes and receive public recognition by suggesting the pressing research questions that need to be answered in the coming decade, the next set of “Big Ideas” for future investment by NSF. This competition is an opportunity to contribute to NSF's mission to support basic research and enable new discoveries that drive the U.S. economy, enhance national security, and advance knowledge to sustain the country's global leadership in science and engineering.
Entries may be submitted by individuals or by teams comprised of up to five individuals, one of whom must be designated as the team leader. All contestants, including individual entrants and all team members, must be at least 14 years of age on 1 September 2018. Contestants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, or residing legally in the U.S. on 1 September 2018. Only one entry per individual or team is permitted. A contestant may submit an entry as an individual or as a member of a team, but not both, and a contestant may only be on one team.
Entries are welcomed from amateurs and professionals alike. High school teachers are encouraged to enter on behalf of their classes.
Entry submission deadline: 26 October 2018
For more information, including additional rules and submission instructions, go to:
https://www.nsf.gov/news/special_reports/nsf2026ideamachine/index.jsp
For questions, contact:
NSF 2026 Idea Machine
Email: nsf2026IM [at] nsf.gov