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The WNY Invention Convention will be held on April 26, 2026

The journey starts here.

We’re happy to once again be holding our event in person at the Buffalo Museum of Science. Our judges are so excited to be able to see the ingenuity of Western New York inventors and to interview them about their invention journey.

As in the past, inventors can submit their inventions to their original category or submit a re-purposed product for our Re-Invent Challenge which is sponsored by Goodwill of Western New York.

  • Awards are given within the grade categories of K-3rd and 4th-8th.

  • Schools are highly encouraged, but not required, to have their own invention event before the student inventions are submitted.

  • We welcome K-8th grade students from public schools, private schools, charter schools, independent homeschoolers, homeschool co-operatives, independent inventors whose schools are not participating, community organizations, scouting troops, and computer clubs.

  • Download the Inventor’s Logbook and Judging Rubric to assist student inventors in being successful and competitive in the regional event. Schools may register students who go above and beyond to demonstrate a quality for innovation, the invention process, and a solution that solves a real-world problem.

  • Visit our Resources Page for a complete list guides and downloadable resources.

Download Inventors Logbook

Registration for the 2026 WNYIC is Now Open

student and parent posing in front of the student's project

Through hands-on projects, students cultivate resilience and determination, empowering them to face challenges and extract valuable lessons. Students also develop STEM experience and independent thinking skills, becoming self-motivated learners equipped with problem-solving and communication skills essential for future academic and professional achievements.

Register Today

How it Works

WNY Invention Convention

1. Register

Students and Teachers, visit ZFairs to register and create your account.

2. Resources

Visit our Resources page for a list of guidelines and downloadable resources.

3. Contact

Contact Diane Ward, if additional assistance is needed.

4. Visit

Continue to visit WNYIC for all other important information.

Annual WNY Invention Convention Award Ceremony

  • 2026 WNYIC to be held at the Buffalo Museum of Science on April 26, 2026. 

  • Hosted by meteorologist, Andy Parker

  • Awards are given within the individual Grade Categories of K—8th grades, following inventor’s pitch presentations

judge shaking hands with award recipient

April 26th, 2026

5 - 8th Grade
Invention Convention

12:45-1 PM

Participants register and set-up

Follow signs to park in the front lot.

1:00-2:15 PM

Student inventors make their invention pitch presentations for judges. Additionally, media interviews, museum tours, food trucks, and more.

All inventors and their families are encouraged to explore the Museum after they’ve been interviewed by judges.

2:15-2:30 PM

Clean Up and Break Down

WNY Invention Convention

Award Ceremony Schedule

April 26th, 2026

K - 4th Grade
Invention Convention

8:30-9:30 AM

Participants register and set-up

Follow signs to park in the front lot.

9:30-10:45 AM

Student inventors make their invention pitch presentations for judges. Additionally, media interviews, museum tours, food trucks, and more.

All inventors and their families are encouraged to explore the Museum after they’ve been interviewed by judges.

10:45-11:00 AM

Clean Up and Break Down

WNY Invention Convention

Frequently Asked Questions

Educators

  • Our live event will be held at the Buffalo Museum of Science on March 30, 2025.

  • Go back into your account and click on ‘Profile” then click on ‘Edit’. If you don’t see your school, you can add it.

  • Click on “Forgot Password” and you will receive an email from ‘NoReply’ with reset information. Make sure to check your SPAM folder.

    • Create an account at wnyic.zfairs.com and enter the name of each inventor.

    • If the parent/guardian is unable to assist the student in registering, the teacher or program leader needs to be the primary contact as an email will be sent to verify the email address as will all emails, post registration.

    • The email will come from ‘NoReply@zfairs.com'.

    • Each inventor will need a separate account, though they can have the same password (if the teacher is uploading many students, this will be easier.). Please go to the FAQ about teams[1] if you are up loading team projects.

  • Log in to your account at wnyic.zfairs.com. If your student has registered their invention on their own, you will need to know their login information.

  • Yes. Create an account wnyic.zfairs.com and pick your child’s school from the drop-down school drop-down list. If your school is not listed, it can be filled in manually.

  • Inventors can work alone or in a team (maximum of 4 per team). Visit wnyic.zfairs.com to register.

Students & Families

  • Yes. Visit wnyic.zfairs.com to create an account. 

    • Select your child’s school from the drop-down school drop-down list.

    • If your school is not listed, it can be filled in manually.

    • If you are a homeschool family or a troop, that will be the name of your “school”.

    • Please send info@wnykidsinvent.org an email before registration if you want to get on our email list for pre-registration updates.

  • Create an account and register your Inventors at wnyic.zfairs.com and enter your homeschool or program manually. If the parent or caregiver is unable to assist the student in registering, the teacher or program leader needs to be the primary contact as an email will be sent to verify the email address. The email will come from ‘NoReply”.

  • For 2025, registration is free. Please registered by the pre-registration deadline of February 14, 2025. Registration Closes March 1st. Registration includes participation of either an individual inventor or an inventor as part of a team, a WNYIC swag bag, and a participation certificate.

Community Supporters

  • WNY Invention Convention offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Visit our Community Supporters page for more information.

  • WNY Invention Convention offers a variety of workshop opportunities. Visit our Resources page for complete details.

  • Complete this inquiry form to directly contact a representative at WNYIC.

  • Visit our Make a Donation page for information on our sponsorship packages.

Jay B., Judge from Moog Inc.

“It was a rewarding experience to judge the students. It was inspiring to see the energy and ingenuity of the next generation of student inventors.”

Register Your Child Today

femaile student presenting her invention at the national invention convention
Register Today