STEMCON Design Contest

ABOUT STEMCON Design Contest

The STEMCON Design Contest program empowers students in grades 4–12 to explore creativity, problem-solving, and innovation through original visual design. The program challenges participants to think about real-world issues and express their ideas through meaningful, student-created artwork. It promotes ethical and authentic creation by encouraging research and brainstorming while requiring the final design to be entirely the student’s own work. Through recognition, awards, and teacher sponsorship opportunities, the program celebrates both student ingenuity and the educators who support them—making STEM learning a creative, inspiring, and community-driven experience.

Theme 2026- Imagine – Invent – Impact

Big change begins with bold ideas—make yours count: Every great change in history started with someone brave enough to share a creative idea. When you think big and dare to try something new, your idea can truly make a difference. Don’t hold back—your idea matters! Sketch your ideas around what excites you, what inspires you, or even a problem you’d like to solve—because every big change starts with a simple spark. Sketch your artwork around this theme. The best artwork will be selected in both the Junior and Senior categories.

Design Requirements

  • Students cannot use AI to create their t-shirt design.
  • Students can use AI to do research on the theme and generate ideas/concepts for their design.
  • Any student in grades 4 through 12 is eligible to take part in the cover design contest.
  • Use an 8.5” x 11” sheet of white paper for each entry.  The design MUST be oriented PORTRAIT, NOT LANDSCAPE.
  • Include the words “STEMCON” in your design. This should be large enough to be seen on your original design.
  • The design must be original and may be computerized.
  • The design must be in black and white.
  • Only one entry is permitted per person during the Contest Period.

Awards

First Place: $250 – Senior Division
First Place: $250- Junior Division
Finalists: $25
Winning Sponsoring Teacher: $100

Submit Your Application

Choose one of the following options to send the applications:

Mail your application to:

Attn: Mitchell Briesemeister – DESIGN CONTEST
Concept Schools
1336 Basswood Rd.
Schaumburg, IL 60173
 

– OR –

Submit Your Artwork Digitally