Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams Grant
The Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams Grant supports high school teams in researching, designing, and prototyping technological inventions to solve real-world problems through a year-long, hands-on STEM project.
Funder: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026 (final application) | April 2027 (initial application)
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per team for a 1-year project; recent awards have ranged from $7,500–$10,000.
Summary: Supports high school teams to invent technological solutions to real-world problems through hands-on, year-long STEM projects.
Key Information: This is a forecasted grant; all deadlines are projected and subject to change.
Description
The Lemelson-MIT InvenTeams Grant empowers high school students—particularly those from under-resourced communities—to collaborate on inventing technological solutions to real-world challenges. Over the course of an academic year, student teams work under the guidance of educators and mentors to research, design, build, and showcase invention prototypes. The program emphasizes inquiry-based, self-directed learning, teamwork, and community involvement, and often leads to lasting innovation cultures at participating schools. InvenTeams receive guidance from Lemelson-MIT staff and Teaching Fellows and may present their work at MIT’s annual EurekaFest.
