2026–2027 Competition
Your idea. Your perspective. Your opportunity to shape what comes next.
Register for NxGen ➡
Who Can Participate?
The 2026–2027 NxGen Innovation Recognition is open to eligible students in Grades 9–12 or equivalent. Participate individually or bring different perspectives together as a team.
Students may enter individually or in teams of up to four. Participants may come from different academic interests and backgrounds—you do not need to be studying fashion, design, business, or technology to participate.
Each participant may take part in one submission during the competition cycle, and every submission must have an adult Adviser. Parent or legal guardian consent is also required for participating minors.
View Full Eligibility Requirements ➡
How Does the Competition Work?
Start with an idea. Develop your thinking. Share it with the FBIF Global Jury.
The competition is designed as a journey from exploration to recognition. Students register, select the Innovation Track that best represents their project, develop their submission, and submit their completed work for evaluation.
Register ➡ Choose Your Track ➡ Develop Your Idea ➡ Submit Your Project ➡ Jury Evaluation ➡ Recognition
When Does It Happen?
The 2026–2027 cycle begins in September, with students having nearly three months to develop and complete their submissions.
2026–2027 Competition Calendar
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August 31, 2026
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September 7, 2026
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September 7, 2026
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September 7-27, 2026
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September 27, 2026
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September 28–30, 2026
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October 1, 2026
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December 4, 2026 at 11:59 PM CT
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December 5–11, 2026
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December 12, 2026–January 3, 2027
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January 4–10, 2027
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January 15, 2027
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February 2027 — date/location/format to be announced
What Do I Need to Submit?
Your submission is designed to help the Jury understand not only your idea, but also the thinking behind it.
A complete submission includes an Innovation Proposal and Video Presentation. Students may also provide optional supporting visual materials where appropriate.
You don't need professional presentation skills or expensive production. The goal is to communicate your idea clearly, explain why it matters, and demonstrate your understanding of what you are proposing.
See What You'll Need to Prepare →