Turn an idea into reality and get the recognition you deserve with InnoVators Pitch Competition.

You’re a high school student who has been called innovative, creative, or inspirational. You’ve taken big ideas and turned them into tangible projects. Maybe your work has already made a positive difference in your community, and you’re not stopping there. But how do you elevate your impact, gain recognition, and connect with others who share your passion for change?

Meet InnoVators (formerly CHSI/
Celebrating High School Innovators).

We see the potential in young innovators, and we’re here to help them take the next step. Through our InnoVators process, we honor high school students worldwide who have met current and emerging social needs through innovation in five key areas.

Journey to Becoming an InnoVator: Steps to Recognition and Growth

Apply or Nominate Someone for InnoVators

Whether you’re an innovator yourself or you know someone who deserves recognition, the first step is to apply or nominate them for the InnoVators event. Our application process is designed to identify and celebrate those who are making a difference.

Go Through Several Rounds of Judging

Our team of investors or professionals examine your application asynchronously, and then those applications deemed suitable advance onto a synchronous virtual regional round on Zoom, where the team will give their presentation on their business in front of a panel.

Get Recognized as a Finalist

If selected as a finalist, your achievements will be celebrated & competed against at a first-of-its-kind event in Bloomington, IL. Blending competition and celebration, this isn’t just about winning; it’s about celebrating your hard work and the impact you’ve made. You’ll be featured alongside other innovators in your area of interest, showcasing your work to a broader audience after a day of competition.

Connect and Grow

At the event, you’ll have the opportunity to network with other student innovators, meet professionals from each of the five areas of innovation, and engage with professionals in the industry and investors. Your work will also be featured in a book profiling young innovators, ensuring your story reaches even further. Most importantly, you’ll walk away with the title of InnoVator, a badge of honor that recognizes your dedication to making the world a better place.

Imagine this: Your innovative project isn’t just something that benefits your local community; it’s recognized on a global stage. You’ve connected with professionals who can help you take your ideas further, and you’ve gained the confidence to keep pushing boundaries. Your story is told in a way that inspires others, and you’ve earned a place among the world’s most promising young innovators. This is what happens when you step up and showcase your potential through InnoVators event.

The Problems

Turning an idea into reality and getting the recognition you deserve is challenging. Even with a great idea and the drive to make it happen, navigating the path from concept to reality can be overwhelming. Finding the right support, opportunities, and platforms to showcase your work is difficult.
You might feel uncertain or underappreciated. Despite your hard work and creativity, you might wonder if anyone will notice or care. There’s a fear that your efforts won’t be recognized, or that you’ll miss out on opportunities to connect with others who could help you further your goals.

The Solution

Innovative young minds should be celebrated, not overlooked. We believe that high school students who are driving change and making a difference deserve to be recognized and supported. Your ideas matter, and the world needs to hear them.

Discover the winners who are turning ideas into reality and gaining the recognition they deserve.

A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

Gold Level Sponsor

Silver Level Sponsor

Bronze Level Sponsor

Join us in supporting innovative minds and making a difference. Become a sponsor today and help us celebrate and empower the next generation of changemakers. Your contribution can make a significant impact!

We’re looking for students like you.