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2026 Challenge
2026 Challenge
Eco-Factory: Build a Sustainable Production Machine
United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
In this challenge, elementary and middle school students will design part of a factory that produces a product using sustainable practices and prepare a prototype demonstration to showcase how the machine works and supports sustainable production. Using K'Nex, Engino, and/or recycled materials, the prototype must emphasize sustainability by minimizing waste, maximizing efficiency, and/or using simulated recycled or reusable parts or materials.
Please check with your IU's
STEM Design Challenge Coordinator to learn more about the regional competition.
The 1st place team in both grade divisions at each IU regional competition will advance to the state competition, held on Friday, May 8, 2026 at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, PA.
Competition Rules:
Competition Rules:
A team of 2-4 students will work together on the project.
Students must create their prototype using no more than 1400 K’Nex and/or Engino pieces. String, tape, and rubber bands are permitted. 3D printed pieces are NOT allowed.
Teams must bring their materials to the competition and will have 2 hours to recreate their project for judging.
There can be no pre-constructed components brought to the competition. Protypes must be built "from scratch."
Projects must fit on a 6-foot-long table. Water may not be used as part of the display.
Each team will need to create and submit a design notebook and a blueprint for viewing at the competition.
Each team will need to prepare a presentation (2 minutes or less) on their model and how it answers the challenge.
Design Notebook
Design Notebook
This should be a journal of the team’s progress from start to finish.
The Notebook should include elements of the Engineering Design Process.
Blueprint
Blueprint
A blueprint is a technical drawing or design plan for a project. It is used to represent the final product.
Blueprints for the STEM Design Challenge can be a drawing, cad drawing, online sketch, etc. Be creative!
Prototype
Prototype
Teams will answer the challenge by creating a prototype of their idea using K’Nex and/or Engino.
Teams may include a backdrop or artwork, but judges will not consider this in their scoring.
Projects must fit on a 6-foot-long table. Water may not be used in the display.
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