Big ideas
need a little encouragement
Your child already has the most important thing they need to become an inventor: their own way of seeing the world.
InventMO gives them a place to follow their curiosity, try something new, build something they can call their own, and discover what they’re capable of along the way.
And you get a front-row seat to all of it.
Whether your child is participating through a school or educational organization or you’re guiding them through the entire process at home, here are some tips to get started.
Get curious together
Talk about things that could work better at home, at school, or in your community. Ask questions, and see where the conversation goes.
Help them explore
Research existing solutions together, gather materials, and help them find the information they need to move forward.
Make room for trial and error
Not every idea works the first time. Encourage your child to experiment, make mistakes, change course, and try again.
Let them take the lead
It’s their invention, after all. Your job is to cheer them on, help when needed, and celebrate what they accomplish.
Give them room to grow
There’s pride in figuring out what didn’t work and trying again, and something great about being able to say, “I invented that.”
You don’t have to be an engineer, a scientist, or particularly handy with a glue gun to help your child become an inventor. Your job isn’t to have the answers. It’s to give them the encouragement and space to find their own.
Independent Inventors
Your child is welcome to participate in InventMO independent of a school group or educational sponsor. If you would like to guide your child through their invention journey at home, please visit the Educators page for free curriculum and resources.
What to expect
The first InventMO competition takes place in April 2027 and will be held virtually. A parent, guardian, or educator needs to be with the inventor on competition day. More info to come, and qualifying families will get details as they’re set.
Key dates
Educator Registration Opens
August 2026
Educator Registration Closes
January 31, 2027
Local & Regional Competitions
Late March-Early April 2027
Registration Deadline for Inventors Advancing to State
April 12, 2027
Virtual State Competition
April 15-19, 2027
National Competition
June 9-11, 2027