Apply Now: Space Center Houston Conrad Challenge 2025-2026 Applications Open August 28!

Join us on Instagram LIVE for the official launch and a special announcement,
August 28 at 7 p.m. CT

Join the premier global STEM competition and turn your ideas into real-world solutions

HOUSTON, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This 2025-2026 school year, students are eligible to join The Conrad Challenge, presented by Equinor, the world's most highly regarded global STEM innovation and entrepreneurship competition. Open to high school students aged 13 to 18, the challenge invites participants to showcase their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) innovations before a panel of expert judges.

"Space Center Houston is excited to launch the 2025-26 Conrad Challenge, presented by Equinor, and invite students from across the globe to take part in this transformative experience," said William T. Harris, president and CEO of Space Center Houston. "This is more than a competition – it is the world's only global science and technology innovation activity that focuses on three major literacies at the same time: STEM, Innovation, and Business."

Founded in 2007 by Nancy Conrad in honor of her late husband, NASA astronaut Charles "Pete" Conrad, the Conrad Challenge inspires students to design today's solutions for tomorrow's challenges, carrying forward his legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship.

Aspiring young minds worldwide can compete in one of the following categories: Aerospace & Aviation, Cyber-Technology & Security, Energy & Environment (sponsored by Equinor), Health & Nutrition, and The Water Challenge.

To sign up, students create a team of two to five members. Teams can include peers, siblings, or friends from anywhere in the world. Previous participants may compete again if they meet the age and eligibility requirements.

"My husband, Pete Conrad, was a passionate advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship," said Nancy Conrad, founder and chair of the Conrad Foundation. "I'm confident he would be incredibly proud of every participant striving to make such significant progress at a young age. They're not only contributing to a brighter future but also helping to shape the next generation of the workforce."

With step-by-step guidance and support from industry mentors, students gain valuable leadership and entrepreneurial skills throughout the challenge's three stages, while building lasting connections with peers and key industry leaders through meaningful networking. The challenge kicks off August 28 and concludes in April 2026.

Last year's Conrad Challenge had a record participation, totaling over 4,000 students from over 70 countries.

Expand your creativity today by applying to compete in the 2025-26 Space Center Houston Conrad Challenge, presented by Equinor. Join us on Instagram LIVE for the official launch and a special announcement, August 28 at 7 p.m. CT!

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SOURCE Space Center Houston