Innovation Challenge

Who Can Participate?

Students from all majors are encouraged to participate. All you need is:

• Passion to improve your community
• A desire to solve problems
• Interest in learning how to bring ideas to life

Participants will also benefit from hands-on workshops that provide training on how to approach the Challenge and develop the tools needed for success.

A series of workshops will be offered during the Spring quarter to help creative and entrepreneurial students transform their unique ideas into meaningful, community-centered solutions. Participants will receive support through:

• Collaboration with peers across disciplines
• Exposure to approaches like Design Thinking
• Guidance in developing prototypes, installations, or creative works
• Skill-building in proof-of-concept, storytelling, and pitching
• Access to creative tools, expert guidance, and opportunities to learn from industry leaders

As a participant in the 2026 Foothill Innovation Challenge, you will build skills that help you turn creative ideas into meaningful impact. You will have the opportunity to:

• Build creative, entrepreneurial, and problem-solving skills
• Tackle real-world social issues with original ideas
• Collaborate with students from across campus
• Present your work with confidence and impact
• Gain recognition from leaders in creativity and innovation

If that isn’t enough incentive, winners will receive cash prizes to fund their projects or continuing education! This year’s top three winners will earn combined prize money of $4000, and all participants will receive digital badges of participation for their digital portfolios.

Curious? Join our Foothill Innovation Challenge Canvas Site to get early access to updates, workshops, and next steps. Joining does not commit you to participating. You will find more information about this incredible experiential learning opportunity and instructions on what to do next.