Invention Convention Rules & Guidelines

Eligibility & Participation

  • Open to students aged 10 - 16. All children must be accompanied by a chaperone during the event.

  • There is no cost to join

  • Both individual or team (max of 3 members) entries are allowed.

  • The Convention will take place on Thursday, May 8th, at the Envision Campus at 1057 Anderson Creek Road

Registration & Submission Details

  • Each participant/team must register by April 28th.

  • Register at envisionforkids@gmail.com. Include "Invention Convention" in the Subject Line. Mike Dickenson is the Contact Person

Project Requirements

  • The invention must solve a real-world problem using creative design.

  • The invention should be an original idea or a significant improvement of an existing one.

  • Participants must construct a working prototype, model, or detailed concept demonstration.

  • A three-piece poster board must be used for the presentation.

  • A folding table must be brought to display the invention.

  • Digital elements (videos, slideshows, or diagrams) may be included but should not replace the physical display.

  • Participants should be prepared to explain their invention to judges and other participants.

Display Guidelines

Tri-Fold Poster Board Sections:

  1. Left Panel:

    • Problem Statement: What problem does your invention solve?

    • Background Research: Briefly explain why this problem exists and how it affects people.

    • Brainstorming & Initial Ideas: Early sketches, notes, or inspirations.

  2. Center Panel:

    • Final Invention Name & Description: Title of your project, a short summary, and key features.

    • Diagram & Prototype Photo: Labeled drawing or picture of the invention.

    • How It Works: Step-by-step process or demonstration.

    • Testing & Results: If applicable, show results from testing your prototype.

  3. Right Panel:

    • Materials & Cost Analysis: List of materials and estimated production cost.

    • Future Improvements: Ideas for enhancing the design.

    • Potential Market Impact: Who would benefit from this invention? How could it be sold?

Judging Criteria

Projects will be evaluated on the following:

  1. Originality & Creativity (20 points) – Is the invention unique? Does it demonstrate innovative thinking?

  2. Problem-Solving Effectiveness (20 points) – Does the invention effectively solve the identified problem?

  3. Design & Functionality (20 points) – How well is the invention designed? Does it work as intended?

  4. Presentation & Communication (20 points) – Is the project explained clearly? Is the board organized and visually engaging?

  5. Market Potential (20 points) – Does the invention have real-world applications or commercial viability?

Event Day Expectations

  • Judging takes place between 12:00 - 2:30 P.M. on May 8th at Envision Campus.

  • All projects and displays must be fully assembled 30 minutes before judging begins.

  • Participants must remain at their display during judging and public viewing periods.

  • Live demonstrations are encouraged but must be safe and controlled.

  • No food will be served. Be prepared to have the necessary food during the event. A bathroom and water will be available.

Prohibited Items & Safety Guidelines

  • No hazardous materials (flammables, explosives, sharp objects).

  • No live animals.

  • Electrical components must be battery-operated unless pre-approved.

  • Awards & Recognition

  • Special awards for  Most Innovative, Best Presentation, Best Problem-Solving Design, Best Solution to Real-World Problem, Best Environmental or Sustainability Invention, Judges’ Choice Award

This is a community-led effort. If you have any prizes you would like to donate, please reach out to us directly

If you would like to be a judge, please state that in your registration.