Invention Convention

Empowering young inventors in grades 3–12

Invention Convention 2025

The Invention Convention is an exciting, hands-on project-based learning program where students in grades 3–12 use the invention process to solve real-world problems. Whether improving existing products or creating entirely new inventions, students learn to think critically, work collaboratively, and pitch their ideas effectively.

Through this interdisciplinary experience, students gain 21st-century skills, build confidence, and explore innovation in a supportive and engaging environment.

 

 

Regional hub competition | Wayne County

Hosted at Wayne State University

Each spring, students in Wayne County have the opportunity to showcase their inventions at the regional competition. Educators receive ongoing support to guide students through the invention process, starting in the fall and continuing through to the competition season.

Support for educators Includes:

  • Grade-specific, print-ready curriculum (optional)
  • Hands-on STEM activity guidance
  • Materials and tools to help students build prototypes
  • Technical support for creating student pitch videos

How it works

Step 1: Form a team or work independently

  • Students may work individually or in teams of up to four.
  • All team members must be in the same grade range.

Step 2: Register for the regional competition

  • Educators register their students and help submit online pitch videos.
  • Additional project materials are brought in-person to the competition.

Step 3: Compete and advance

  • Regional winners advance to the State Competition held at The Henry Ford.
  • Top state winners move on to compete at U.S. Nationals held at The Henry Ford in June.

Grade groupings

One to four students per invention. Students working together on a project must be within the same grade range.

  • K-2nd grade * does not qualify to compete at state level
  • 3rd-5th grade
  • 6th-8th grade
  • 9th-12th grade

Regional hub award categories

The top projects in the following grade ranges will be awarded at the regional hub level, and will advance to the state level competition held at The Henry Ford. 

  • Grades K-2 *may participate in the Wayne County Hub but will not be eligible to advance to the state or national levels
  • Grades 3-5
  • Grades 6-8
  • Grades 9-12
  • Top project overall (all grades)

Student invention requirements

 

prototype icon

Prototype

Log book icon

Log book

Poster board icon

Display board

Video presentation icon

Pitch video

Presentation icon

Presentation

 

Download Invention Convention resources 

Competition series timeline

Resources for educators

Invention Convention resources are available at the links below to help guide teachers in the classroom. The curriculums are organized under a framework that uses the seven steps of the invention process.

The log book is used to document the invention process.

Contact

For more information, please contact Jasmine Roberson

If your school district is not within Wayne County, and you would like more information, please reach out to Invention Convention Michigan.

Henry Ford Michigan Invention Convention logo
Sponsored by The Henry Ford