Closed · next round 2026/27
The Innovation Challenge
Build something that addresses a real problem, and tell us why you are the person to build it.
What we’re looking for
The Innovation Challenge asks you to build something that addresses a real problem. We care less about polish than about the problem being real and the idea being yours.
We also want to know who you are: the proposal asks for your background, because the judges are backing a person, not only a plan. Top entries lead somewhere. The first-round winner has been introduced to an investor to explore the next steps towards a commercial product.
Who can enter
The first round was free to students in Years 11 to 13 across the UK (S4 to S6 in Scotland; Years 12 to 14 in Northern Ireland), individually or in teams of up to four.
How to enter
- Write a one-to-three-sentence description of your idea.
- Write a proposal of 500 to 1,000 words covering your background and the innovation.
- Attach proof of enrolment (a school letter, timetable, ID card or report).
- Save as a Word document named Innovation-Challenge-FullName and submit by email to info@empoweredvoices.org.uk.
What to submit
The description, the proposal and proof of enrolment, as above.
How entries are judged
Three judges review the written proposals anonymously against formal criteria. The first-round judges were Jordan Unokesan, President; Tia Da Silva-Hunt, Director of Operations; and Gordon Armah, Director of Programmes.
Prizes
First round: £500 and a MacBook Neo for first place (£1,100 for a winning team), £250 for second, £100 for third, and honourable mentions. The top three became Empowered Voices Fellows. A £3,000 prize pot is planned for 2026/27.
Key dates
Last round: deadline 23:59 on Sunday 23 August 2026; results Monday 14 September 2026 at 9am. Next round: dates to be confirmed for 2026/27; sign up to be notified.
Rules
Original work only; AI-generated content is disqualified. One entry per student.
Questions
Does it have to be built already?
No. The judges assess the written proposal, and finalists are invited to a short interview.
Can I enter as a team?
Yes, up to four. A winning team receives £1,100 in place of £500 and the MacBook.
Should I wait for the deadline?
In the first round, applications were reviewed on a rolling basis, so there was no advantage in waiting for the deadline.