SciFest celebrates 20 years of student innovation as 2026 competition launches

SciFest, Ireland’s largest and most inclusive second-level STEM fair programme, has announced its return for 2026, marking 20 years since the first SciFest STEM fair took place in 2006.

SciFest is celebrating two decades of supporting young people to explore STEM through curiosity-led investigation, creativity and problem-solving, and of creating a platform where students can present their work locally, regionally, nationally and even internationally.

Students can submit projects across a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physical and life sciences and technology. SciFest is free to enter and open to second-level students of all backgrounds and circumstances. To take part,students should complete the online entry form via the SciFest website by 12 March.

SciFest@College fairs take place in regional venues nationwide, with successful projects progressing through the programme to the SciFest National Final later in the year, where finalists compete for top awards and opportunities to represent Ireland internationally.

The SciFest programme is supported through public funding from the Department of Education and Youth and a community of partnerships including Intel Ireland, Boston Scientific, EirGrid and Keenova.

Speaking as SciFest launches its 20th anniversary year, Sheila Porter, SciFest Founder and CEO, said: “Twenty years ago, the first SciFest fair took place in Tallaght, and since then we’ve seen tens of thousands of students bring ideas to life – asking questions, testing solutions and presenting projects with confidence and pride.

“This year is about recognising what has made SciFest possible: the commitment of our host colleges, the dedication of teachers and school communities, the enthusiasm and hard work of students across the country, and the consistent support of our funding and sponsorship partners. Thank you for backing SciFest over the last 20 years – and for helping us inspire the next generation of STEM thinkers and doers.

“2026 will be a year of celebration throughout the programme and an exciting year ahead. I would encourage every second-level student with an idea, an interest, or even just a question they want to explore, to enter SciFest. We cannot wait to see the innovation, imagination and impact of this year’s projects.”

Since 2006, SciFest has grown into a nationwide programme, with 16,000 students now taking part across 160+ local, regional and national fairs. For more information visit www.scifest.ie.

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