The International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world’s largest and most prestigious pre-college STEM research competition and talent pipeline. Each year, more than 170,000 students participate in more than 400 affiliated fairs across the globe to earn the chance to participate in ISEF. Of this group, 1,800 finalists – representing all 50 states and more than 70 countries and territories – earn the right to compete for millions of dollars in awards at ISEF. These competitors join a global network of alumni that includes Nobel Laureates, MacArthur Foundation Fellows, as well as hundreds of founders, CEOs and changemakers.

Each year, more than 40 professional organizations, representing government, industry and education across a wide variety of scientific disciplines, affiliate with ISEF as Special Award Organizations to provide named awards from their respective organizations at a dedicated awards ceremony. Special Award Organizations provide their own judges who choose the winners of their awards. This provides opportunities for students to be recognized beyond the 22 categories of the Grand Awards. Further, Special Awards allows participating companies and organizations to publicly illustrate their commitment to STEM education.

Learn more about Special Award Organizations here. Please contact Jackie Ludden Nardelli if your organization is interested in becoming a Special Award Organization.