J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute
Entrepreneurship + Innovation-YE Invention Convention Worldwide
Entrepreneurship + Innovation-YE Invention Convention Worldwide
Learn more about your impact
In its inaugural year, Invention Convention Arizona, powered by the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at Arizona State University, engaged over 3,000 K–12 students across five Arizona counties. These young innovators participated in regional competitions, including events in Tucson and online, culminating in a state competition at ASU SkySong.
From this talented group, 17 students qualified for the U.S. National Invention Convention, with 14 traveling to Dearborn, Michigan, to present their inventions at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation. Notably, a fifth-grade student achieved second place nationally in her grade band and received top honors in the Environmental & Sustainability Innovation category.
Participation in the national convention offers students a lasting legacy: the opportunity to say their invention was showcased at a premier institution dedicated to American innovation. This experience instills confidence and a sense of belonging among the nation’s greatest inventors.
It was such an amazing experience watching our son make so much growth at nationals! We thought the learning experience was just embedded throughout the path to nationals, which it was! But we were not expecting all of the incredible experiences, learning opportunities and supports that were waiting for students at the National Convention! The entire experience from start to finish was such a transformative one not just for our son but for our entire family!”
Impact of donor support
Your generosity fuels invention, creativity and confidence in Arizona youth.
Through your support, over 3,000 K–12 students across Arizona gained access to high-quality innovation education during our inaugural year. Whether through classroom-based invention programs, youth-serving organizations or independent projects, students developed real-world solutions to problems that matter to them.
Your contributions helped:
- Provide materials, training and guidance for educators and youth group leaders.
- Expand access to regional competitions — including virtual and rural options.
- Host a statewide event that connected students to the ASU innovation ecosystem.
- Support 14 students and their families in traveling to the U.S. National Invention Convention in Dearborn, Michigan.
These experiences don’t just build skills — they create lifelong confidence. Students return from nationals knowing they belong among the world’s great inventors. Your support makes that possible.
