Schedule
A.H. Nickless Innovation Award competition schedule: 2026-2027
Phase One
Teams will submit two-page descriptions (Abstract) of their projects by the close of Phase One in early October. In late October/early November, regional experts will choose up to 20 teams to continue in the competition. The selected teams will each receive $1,000 to develop their projects and cover their expenses.
Phase Two
The teams chosen to move on to Phase Two will work on their projects and complete their project Report by the submission deadline in late March. Projects will be presented and judged and winners will be announced during the Phase Two judging event in April.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Phase One open enrollment period begins: Teams register for the competition and submit their project abstracts | Monday, August 17, 2026 |
| Phase One closes | 4 p.m. EDT Friday, October 9, 2026 |
| Up to 20 teams chosen to move on to Phase Two | Late October/early November |
| Phase Two – $1,000 participation grants distributed | Late October/early November |
| Phase Two - final project submission period begins | Monday, March 22, 2027 |
| Phase Two – final project submission due | 4 p.m. EDT Wednesday, March 31, 2027 |
| Phase Two judging event – projects presented; winners announced |
8 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT Saturday, April 24, 2027
Saginaw Valley State University |