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Jacobs Teen Innovation Challenge: A Platform for Young Innovators

Imagine if the next significant breakthrough in areas like sustainability, healthcare, or social justice were to emerge from the mind of a teenager. This isn't a far-fetched idea but a vision embraced by the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education at the University of San Diego. They are currently calling for participation in the 2026 Jacobs Teen Innovation Challenge (JTIC), which is a global, virtual competition focused on encouraging students aged 13 to 18 to become changemakers through innovative solutions.

What is the Jacobs Teen Innovation Challenge?

The JTIC invites students worldwide to engage in a competition where they utilize design thinking methodologies to create practical solutions addressing real-world challenges. Aligned with the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), participants are empowered to confront pressing social, economic, and environmental issues that their communities face.

The previous edition of the challenge in 2025 saw an impressive participation of more than 7,400 students from 28 countries, each presenting remarkable and impactful solutions. Among noteworthy projects were Lunara, a pioneering wearable sensor designed to track heart rate, body temperature, and moisture for athletes, and No Needle, a non-invasive glucometer aiding those living with diabetes. These projects exemplify the vast potential of youth innovation when provided with mentorship and a supportive platform.

“The challenge brings together young minds from all over the world, each contributing their unique experiences, perspectives, and passions,” says Dr. Perla Myers, the Executive Director of the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education. She further emphasizes that, “These teens are genuinely invested in their communities and demonstrate how creativity coupled with compassion can ignite meaningful change.”

Who Can Participate?

The JTIC is open to any high school students globally, providing a nurturing environment for innovation. Teams are encouraged to submit entries and share their concepts that strive to create positive impacts in their communities and beyond. Importantly, participation is free for both students and educators, making it an accessible opportunity for all.

Important Details

• - Registration: Now open for the 2026 challenge.
• - Deadline: Students and educators must register by October 22, 2025.

Educators wishing to guide their students through this enriching initiative can access numerous resources to help them get started and facilitate team participation.

Support and Resources

The JTIC is supported by the Pactful® curriculum and application. This free tool available in both English and Spanish aids students in comprehending and applying design thinking in their projects. Both the Pactful® initiative and the Jacobs Institute for Innovation in Education receive generous sponsorship from Dr. Irwin Jacobs and Mrs. Joan Jacobs, whose legacy continues to inspire the next generation.

Conclusion

The Jacobs Teen Innovation Challenge serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the remarkable capabilities of young individuals. By fostering creativity and compassion through structured innovation, the challenge empowers today’s youth to envision and enact solutions for a more sustainable and just future. It's not just a competition; it’s a movement towards a brighter tomorrow, led by the innovators of our future. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a real impact - register today!