The useful question is what changes for users, developers or buyers, and whether the announcement stays industry context or becomes something people can actually use.

The 2026 3M Young Scientist Challenge has announced 37 State Merit Winners and four Honorable Mentions, selected from entries submitted by fifth through eighth graders. Participants submitted brief videos explaining original ideas to address real-world problems using science, with submissions evaluated on creativity, scientific knowledge and communication skills. This year’s entries covered diverse categories such as robotics, home improvement, automotive, safety, AR/VR and climate technology. State Merit Winners receive recognition on the challenge website and a prize pack, while Honorable Mentions are awarded for unique concepts and effective communication.

The competition, now in its 14th year, is open to students in grades five through eight and recognizes a grand prize winner, 10 finalists, four Honorable Mentions and up to 51 State Merit Winners across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The 37 State Merit Winners and four Honorable Mentions for 2026 were chosen based on their passion for science, innovation and communication skills. The four Honorable Mentions were announced in alphabetical order by last name, though their specific names were not provided in the announcement.

3M and Discovery Education emphasized the program’s role in fostering STEM learning and real-world problem-solving among young students. The competition highlights how science can be applied to improve the world, with 3M supporting participants as they develop and refine their ideas. Discovery Education noted that the challenge helps students connect science to tangible outcomes, encouraging persistence and creativity. The program is complemented by Young Scientist Lab, a free digital resource offering hands-on science experiences for students, teachers and families.

The 3M Young Scientist Challenge is supported by Young Scientist Lab, a free digital resource providing standards-aligned, hands-on science activities for PreK-12 students. Resources are accessible through Discovery Education Experience, an educational platform used in classrooms across the U.S. and globally. The competition and its associated resources aim to spark curiosity and build STEM skills among students of all skill levels. More information about the 2026 competitors and the challenge is available at YoungScientistLab.com.