IDEAS TO IMPACT
Ideas to Impact is OFIS’s national educational contest that invites young people to share how science can address challenges in their communities. Open to participants ages 14–24, the campaign uses short-form video and social media to amplify youth perspectives on the role of science in solving real-world problems. Submissions will be judged by criteria such as content, creativity, feasibility, logic, originality, and overall quality. Our contest serves as an entry point into OFIS— introducing participants to the Explore stage of the OFIS Pathway through storytelling, community observation, and creative expression.
Winners receive cash prizes up to $1000!
WHAT PARTICIPANTS DO
Participants create and share short-form videos that respond to a central prompt:
How can science make a difference in your community?
Through this process, participants:
Identify a challenge in their community
Explain how science can help address the issue
Communicate their ideas through video and storytelling
Share their perspectives with a national audience
Social media serves as a forum for activism and a powerful channel to learn how science lays out a concrete path toward change.
CREATE & SUBMIT IN 3 EASY STEPS!
Read the Official Contest Rules by clicking here.
Tell your story: Use the campaign prompt to guide your 60-second to 3-minute video using your phone,
computer, or other device. Be creative—participants can incorporate visuals, music, text overlays,
or collaboration with others. Videos should be vertical with clear audio and lighting.Submit your video: To be considered for prizes, complete the official submission form available here.
FEATURED PAST WINNERS
Participants have explored a wide range of issues, including: Make a difference by sharing your creative ideas that use STEM to fix a problem in your community. Check out the videos of past winners!
Topic: Plastic Pollution
Topic: Air Pollution
Topic: Water Accessibility
Topic: Water Quality
Topic: Water Contamination
Topic: Rainfall
Your ideas matter. Share how science can make a difference in your community.
OFIS collaborates with schools, youth-serving organizations, scientists, and creators to expand the campaign's reach and elevate youth voices. Please contact us for information.