The 2026 Iowa Invention Convention State Finals, hosted by the Jacobson Institute at the University of Iowa, brought more than 100 K–12 student inventors to the Iowa Memorial Union on April 11, showcasing creativity, problem-solving, and innovation.

The event marked a year of growth for the statewide program, which expanded from 194 students in the 2024–25 school year to more than 2,300 students in 2025–26. That growth was reflected at the state finals, where 105 student inventors presented 86 inventions from 23 schools across Iowa. More than 40 volunteers served as judges.

Fifteen student teams earned Recognized Inventor Awards, highlighting achievement in innovation, design, and impact. Eleven inventors will advance to the RTX Invention Convention U.S. Nationals, to be held June 3–5 in Dearborn, Michigan.

This year’s inventions reflected a wide range of challenges and technologies, with students developing solutions in artificial intelligence, sustainability, accessibility, and everyday convenience. Judges evaluated projects on originality, functionality, and impact, with top entries demonstrating a clear understanding of a problem and a practical solution. Projects ranged from an adaptive crutch for individuals with limb differences to an AI-powered app that improves athletic performance and a smart plant pot that monitors environmental conditions.

“Watching students from across our state confidently present their own inventions is truly inspiring,” said Kelsi Harms, invention education program manager for the Jacobson Institute. “Supporting them is one of the highlights of my work. We are proud of all they’ve accomplished this year and grateful to the educators, community members, and sponsors who continue to champion invention education for our youth.”

The Iowa Invention Convention provides hands-on learning that connects classroom concepts to real-world challenges. Through the process of identifying problems, developing solutions, and presenting their ideas, students build critical thinking, confidence, and collaboration skills.

The Jacobson Institute continues to expand access to invention education through partnerships with schools and communities statewide, ensuring more students can explore their ideas and bring them to life. For more information and to get involved, click HERE. 

The Jacobson Institute is the K-12 outreach arm of the John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center at the University of Iowa (Iowa JPEC). Since the formation of Iowa JPEC in 1996, a high priority has been placed on K-12 outreach to connect with and contribute to the development of the next generation of problem solvers.