2026 National Elementary School Programming Tournament Zero One Grand Slam Now Accepting Online Entries

The Exciting Launch of the Zero One Grand Slam 2026

The Zero One Grand Slam is an exceptional programming tournament specifically designed for elementary school students across Japan. This event, operated by Shogakukan and organized by the Japan Junior Programming Promotion Organization, has steadily gained popularity, with over 6,000 students participating since its inception. Now, as we gear up for the fifth edition of the tournament for 2026, the online qualifiers are officially open, kicking off from May 15 to June 14, 2026.

Easy Access to Online Qualifiers

Participants can engage from anywhere in the country, making this an inclusive and exciting opportunity for young programmers. By utilizing the widely-used visual programming language, Scratch, students can showcase their creativity and coding skills. Importantly, the competition is free of charge and open to all elementary students, encouraging newcomers to try their hand at programming.

The flexibility of the WEB qualifiers allows participants to challenge themselves multiple times, enhancing their skills in a supportive environment. If you're just starting with programming or are eager to take on new challenges, we invite you to join this fantastic opportunity to put your skills to the test.

Group Entries Now Available

Building on the success of last year’s event, group entries are back! This means programming schools, clubs, or other organizations can apply collectively without needing individual registration from each student. For more detailed information on how to submit group entries, please visit the official Zero One Grand Slam website. Note that parental consent is required for each participant in a group entry.

Intense Competition Ahead in the Second Round

Competitors who advance past the online qualifiers and first round will have the chance to engage in thrilling battles during the second round at physical venues. The second round will feature both visual programming and robotics competition, culminating in the finals scheduled for September 27, 2026. Exciting events are planned at two main locations:

- Kansai Venue: August 16, 2026, at Osaka Sunrise Building, Hall C, Osaka City.
- Kanto Venue: August 22, 2026, at YAMAHA MOTOR Regenerative Lab, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture.

Exciting Partnerships for 2026

This year, we are thrilled to announce partnerships with esteemed companies like Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. and Cygames, who return as gold sponsors. Their support, along with backing from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, plays a vital role in promoting programming education and nurturing young programming talents.

Overview of the Zero One Grand Slam 2026

The Zero One Grand Slam is renowned for offering a platform where any elementary school student can exemplify their programming prowess. The tournament consists of online qualifiers and the initial round, allowing students to compete freely without financial burdens. With the opportunity to advance to in-person rounds for both visual programming and robotics competitions, students can work towards a grand final showdown.

Upcoming Events:

- WEB Qualifiers: May 15 – June 14, 2026 (online)
- First Round: July 12, 2026 (online)
- Second Round:

- Kansai Venue: August 16, 2026
- Kanto Venue: August 22, 2026

- Finals: September 27, 2026 at Tokyo Big Sight, Koto City, Tokyo.

Participation is completely free, with eligibility extending to all elementary school students born between April 2, 2014, and April 1, 2020. Entry applications are available on the official website, and we look forward to welcoming you!

For the latest updates and additional details, follow us on our official social media channels, including X, Facebook, and YouTube, where we also share archives of past tournaments.

Official Links:

Organizers

- Hosted by the Japan Junior Programming Promotion Organization.
- Operated by the Zero One Grand Slam Executive Committee, comprising Shogakukan, Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, TV Tokyo, and Hakuhodo DY ONE.