What Is the MA Invention Convention?
The Massachusetts Invention Convention is a program of NextMinds, an internationally recognized educational non-profit organization started in 1983 (formerly known as the Connecticut Invention Convention). Throughout the year, educators use our curriculum to develop creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills through invention and entrepreneurship. This culminates in the final competition event where we recognize students and advance selected inventors to National competitions. Today, our programs are open to all K-12 students across Connecticut and Massachusetts, with separate events held in each state.
WHY TEACH INVENTING?
Invention provides students with a unique means to discover new skill sets and creatively apply these in real-life settings while nurturing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Our curriculum is standards-based and enables students to research, analyze and effectively focus on and solve their real-life problems. For more information, please visit our educator page.
WHAT'S THE IMPACT?
Our Invention Convention programs have been educator assessed to realize substantial student impacts. In the 2023-2024 school year, our programs were found to create a significant increase in:
- STEM Identity for over 98% of students.
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship for over 98% of students.
- Creative Problem Solving for over 98% of students.
- Self Confidence for over 96% of students.
- Communication Skills for over 98% of students.
- Classroom Engagement for over 94% of students.