2025 Young Scientist Challenge Seeks Students Using Science to Solve Everyday Problems

The entry period is now open for the 2025 3M Young Scientist Challenge, a science competition from 3M and Discovery Education for students in grades 5-8 recognizing individuals across the United States who have "demonstrated a passion for using science to solve everyday problems and improve the world around them." One grand prize winner will be awarded $25,000 and the title of "America's Top Young Scientist"; 10 finalists will win $1,000 and a summer mentorship with a 3M scientist; four honorable mentions (one per grade) will be awarded certificates; and up to 51 state merit winners will receive 3M Young Scientist Challenge prize packs and certificates.

To enter, students must submit a brief video explaining their own science-based solution to an existing problem. Entry topic areas include robotics, home improvement, automotive, safety, AR/VR, and climate technology. Submissions will be evaluated on creativity, scientific knowledge, communication skills, and overall presentation.

The deadline for entries is May 1. Finalists will be selected in June and participate in a summer mentorship program, after which they will have the opportunity to compete in a final event in October featuring hands-on challenges, presentations, live judging, and more. The grand prize winner will be announced at the October event.

"The 3M Young Scientist Challenge has sparked curiosity in countless inventors, innovators, and problem-solvers over the last 18 years, all before they even begin high school," said Torie Clarke, 3M's executive vice president and chief public affairs officer, in a statement. "I'm proud of 3M's support for this program that helps students get excited about the power of science and technology to address global challenges." 

"The 3M Young Scientist Challenge is a powerful testament to the incredible things that happen when students bring classroom knowledge to real-world problems," commented Amy Nakamoto, executive vice president of marketing and strategic alliances at Discovery Education. "This annual challenge elevates students' remarkable creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking skills, showcasing their extraordinary potential to transform the world for the better." 

For more information, visit YoungScientistLab.com.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Case Systems makerspace

    Case Systems Launches Line of K–12 Makerspace Installations

    Case Systems recently announced the launch of SALTO, a line of classroom fixtures and installations for K–12 learning spaces like STEM labs, art rooms, and makerspaces. The product line is designed to provide teachers with flexibility and adaptability, enabling them to shift between collaborative and individual learning environments.

  • a glowing golden coin with a circuit board pattern, set against a gradient blue and white background with faint stock market graphs and metallic letters "AI" integrated into the design

    Google Reportedly Investing $1 Billion in AI Startup Anthropic

    Google is investing more than $1 billion in generative AI startup Anthropic, expanding its stake in one of Silicon Valley's leading artificial intelligence firms, according to a source familiar with the matter.

  • glowing AI text box emerges from a keyboard on a desk, surrounded by floating padlocks, warning icons, and fragmented shields

    1 in 10 AI Prompts Could Expose Sensitive Data

    A recent study from data protection startup Harmonic Security found that nearly one in 10 prompts used by business users when interacting with generative AI tools may inadvertently disclose sensitive data.

  • Two figures, one male and one female, stand beside a transparent digital interface displaying AI symbols like neural networks, code, and a shield, against a clean blue gradient background.

    Microsoft-IDC Report Makes Business Case for Responsible AI

    A report commissioned by Microsoft and published last month by research firm IDC notes that 91% of organizations use AI tech and expect more than a 24% improvement in customer experience, business resilience, sustainability, and operational efficiency due to AI in 2024.