Young entrepreneurs from BASIS Charter Schools took center stage at the 2026 Invention Convention Arizona, demonstrating how student-led innovation can solve real-world problems. Held at Arizona State University’s Tempe campus, the statewide competition brought together 263 student entrepreneurs to showcase original inventions and entrepreneurial thinking.
Part of a larger initiative supported by the J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute at ASU, the program reached more than 5,700 K–12 learners across Arizona this school year, guiding them through the process of identifying problems, prototyping solutions, and presenting their ideas.
Following five regional competitions, top students advanced to the state event, where winners now had the opportunity to compete at the national convention in June.
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Young entrepreneurs solve real-world problems at Invention Convention
BASIS Students Earn Top Honors Across Grade Levels
BASIS Charter Schools students delivered standout performances across multiple divisions, earning recognition for creativity, technical skill, and real-world impact.
3rd Grade
- 3rd Place: Ethyl Checker: Smart Sticker for Smart Freshness
Samrithi N. — BASIS Scottsdale Primary East
10th Grade
- 1st Place: Pure Harvest
William L. — BASIS Scottsdale
- 3rd Place: Brain Freeze (Permafrost)
Ayushi G. & Avneesh Mehra — BASIS Peoria
A highlight of the event came from BASIS Peoria 10th grader Ayushi G., who presented her team’s invention, Brain Freeze, an all-in-one neuro-gaming and learning system designed to enhance cognitive engagement. Her team’s work captured judges’ attention and secured a top placement in their division. [news.asu.edu]
11th Grade
- 1st Place: Smart Medicine Dispensing System
Iraj S. — BASIS Chandler
- 2nd Place: Koril: A Novel Biosensor for Broad Coral Reef Health
Shriyans N. — BASIS Scottsdale
Building Future Entrepreneurs Through Real-World Problem Solving
Invention Convention Arizona is a hands-on entrepreneurship experience. Students follow a structured innovation process that includes:
- Identifying real-world problems
- Researching and brainstorming solutions
- Building and refining prototypes
- Presenting and marketing their inventions
This experiential model mirrors real startup development and helps students build confidence, creativity, and critical thinking skills.
At the ASU Tempe campus event, the day featured judging sessions, interactive exhibits, and an awards ceremony celebrating Arizona’s top young innovators.
Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
The success of BASIS Charter Schools students at the 2026 Invention Convention Arizona underscores the strength of a curriculum that prioritizes inquiry, creativity, and applied learning. From improving food freshness and healthcare systems to advancing environmental monitoring and educational technology, these students are already shaping solutions for tomorrow’s challenges.
As they advance to the national stage, these young innovators exemplify the power of student curiosity paired with real-world application—proving that entrepreneurship can begin at any age.
