Welcome, Mentors!
The Independent Innovator Challenge offers mentorship opportunities to support students throughout their innovation journey. Our mentors are professionals, educators, and innovators who guide participants by providing feedback, advice, and inspiration.
- Make a meaningful impact on young innovators
- Share your expertise and foster creativity
- Gain insights from students working on diverse projects
Interested in mentoring? Contact us to learn more about how you can help shape the next generation of problem-solvers.
What is the Independent Innovator Challenge?
The Independent Innovator Challenge (IIC) is a pathway to the U.S. National Innovator Challenge (NIC) for students who do not have a qualifying organization to go through. We believe that everyone should have an opportunity to showcase their innovative work!
If you are uncertain whether your organization is an NIC partner, write to: NIC@hewittlearning.org
If your students do not have an NIC partner to qualify for Nationals, please apply to the Independent Innovator Challenge.
When to have things done for the IIC:
The following are dates for the IIC.
- Registration:
Registration opens on March 1, 2025.
Registration closes on April 21, 2025. Everything must be submitted by this date at midnight Pacific time. - Feedback to all Innovators:
Emailed by May 5, 2025. - Invitations for those advancing to the Live Event:
Emailed by May 5, 2025.
This email will include an invitation to a specific time slot for the live event and a date by which you will need to RSVP to ensure your slot remains available. - Live Independent Innovator Challenge via Zoom:
May 9 – 18, 2025 - Independent Innovator Challenge Celebration and Awards Ceremony:
May 25, 2025 on YouTube and Social Media.
Please review the Student Handbook and the Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.
Resources:
More resources coming…..
