The 2026 challenge is closed. Here’s how it worked.
Be the person who says, “You should do this.”
Know a student who notices problems and asks good questions? Help them turn one idea into a real entry in the North Carolina Idea Challenge.
Students in grades 5–12 can share a 1–2 minute video about an idea to help their community. Winning ideas receive $1,000. You do not need a finished project or a polished video. Submissions for 2026 ran through October 5, 2026.
Send one personal invitation
A message from someone who knows a student can make this feel possible. Add one sentence about why you thought of them, then send this:
I thought of you because you notice things that could be better. The NC Idea Challenge is for students in grades 5–12 with an idea to help their community. You can enter with a 1–2 minute video, and winning ideas receive $1,000. You do not need to have built anything yet. Submissions for 2026 closed Monday, October 5. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian will need to confirm permission after you submit. Take a look: https://ideachallengenc.org/
Run it with your class or club
Take students from “I don’t have an idea” to an entry they can finish and share with a parent or guardian. Use two short sessions, or one prepared class period with recording space and time built in.
Inside: a ready-to-read opening, a student worksheet, examples from middle and high school winners, a recording checklist, and a parent note. No advance project or slide-making required.
Choose examples your students can see themselves in
Small changes such as water-saving reminders in Burke County, activities and gifts for nursing-home residents in McDowell County, and student service clubs.
A student craft club in Greene County, an essentials-vending idea in Granville County, and a system to keep school water-fountain filters maintained in Guilford County.
These are examples of the range of ideas. Your idea should come from what you notice.
Bring two friends
Student ambassadors have one simple mission: invite two peers, help them find a place to record, and remind them to check the parent-permission step. Adults can help coordinate a short session. Contact hello@ideachallengenc.org for support.
Want help hosting?
Email hello@ideachallengenc.org with your school or organization, county, student age group and possible session date.
Educators can enter their own ideas too. See the Educator Challenge →