NFTE's World Series of Innovation Crowns Young Global Innovators

Event summary

  • NFTE announced winners of its 15th annual World Series of Innovation, with 353 young participants from 47 countries competing in the Imagination League (ages 5-12).
  • The competition engaged nearly 4,000 young people globally, focusing on solutions aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Finalists for the Impact League (ages 13-24) will be announced on April 21, 2026.
  • Winners of the Imagination League received $600 in prizes to support their educational endeavors.

The big picture

NFTE's World Series of Innovation highlights the growing emphasis on fostering entrepreneurial skills among youth globally. The competition's alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals underscores the strategic importance of integrating education with real-world problem-solving. As the nonprofit continues to expand its reach, its ability to secure funding and demonstrate the long-term impact of its programs will be critical to its success.

What we're watching

Scaling Impact
Whether NFTE can sustain and expand its global reach to further promote entrepreneurship education among young innovators.
Funding Dynamics
How the organization will secure continued support from partners and donors to fund its programs and initiatives.
Program Effectiveness
The long-term impact of NFTE's programs on the participants' entrepreneurial skills and future success.