Returning for its 35th year of inspiring innovation in the next generation of scientists, the annual Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) competition is now open for registration. The program, sponsored by Toshiba and administered by the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA), challenges students to use problem solving, critical thinking and teamwork to imagine solutions to real-life issues. Participants will have a chance to win prizes, including $10,000 U.S. Series EE Savings Bonds (at maturity). Registration is open until January 27, 2027, at ExploraVision.org.

During the competition, teams of two to four students are challenged to identify a real-world problem, research scientific principles and current technologies, and design innovative solutions that could exist in the next 10+ years. Regional winners then create technology launch flyers and prototypes to bring these concepts to life. The competition culminates in Washington, D.C., where winners present their ideas to executives from Toshiba, NSTA and other VIPs. Last year’s winning ideas ranged from technology to revolutionize agriculture practices, preserve infrastructure and solve complex health challenges.

“Toshiba is thrilled to celebrate 35 years of ExploraVision in 2027,” said Ken Takagi, Chairman & CEO, Toshiba America, Inc. “As a former engineer at Toshiba myself, I’m inspired to see such excitement and innovation from the next generation of STEM leaders. I enjoy seeing how our work with ExploraVision brings our corporate promise of ‘Committed to People, Committed to the Future’ to life through the power of supporting STEM education.”

Since the program launched in 1992, ExploraVision has helped nearly 450,000 students across the United States and Canada cultivate a life-long passion for STEM. The competition provides a turnkey solution for coaches to excite, educate and engage students, virtually and in person, about science and engineering practices found in the Next Generation Science Standards – such as asking questions and defining problems, planning and carrying out investigations, and analyzing and interpreting data.

“As ExploraVision begins its 35th year, we have an incredible window into how students see the future and how their ideas can challenge us to see it differently,” said Dr. Donna Governor, President of NSTA. “Through NSTA’s partnership with Toshiba and the dedicated educators who encourage students to explore what’s possible, this program has helped generations of students turn their ideas into exciting possibilities. We’re proud to be part of that journey and can’t wait to see what the next generation imagines.”

Competition Phases and Prizes for Students

Student teams compete in groups based on their grade levels: primary (K-3), upper elementary (4-6), middle level (7-9) and high school (10-12). There are three phases to the competition, entry, regional and national.

In the entry phase, all teams that submit will receive a digital certificate, an entry gift, and feedback from the judges.

In the regional phase, the 24 winning teams from six regions across the United States and Canada will receive a banner for their school, and each member of the team will receive technology prizes.

In the national phase, each member of a first-place U.S. team will receive their choice of a $10,000 Series EE Savings Bond at maturity, $5,000 in cash, or a $5,000 contribution to a 529 education plan. Each member of a second-place U.S. team will receive their choice of a $5,000 Series EE Savings Bond at maturity, $2,500 in cash, or a $2,500 contribution to a 529 plan. Canadian winners receive a cash award in the equivalent value based on the current exchange rate ($5,000 U.S. for first place and $2,500 U.S. for second place).

All first- and second-place national winners, along with their coaches or mentors, will also receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., for an awards weekend in June 2027. The weekend will include a visit to Capitol Hill, meetings with members of Congress, and a Science Showcase where students can demonstrate their winning ideas and be recognized for their achievements.

To register a team or for additional information for the 2026-27 competition, visit www.exploravision.org. Follow ExploraVision on X at @ToshibaAmerica, Instagram at @Toshiba_STEMEducation, or join the ExploraVision Facebook Page at www.Facebook.com/ToshibaAmerica.

About Toshiba Corporation

For over 150 years, Toshiba Group has contributed to the betterment of society through its business activities. Today, guided by the corporate philosophy of “Committed to People, Committed to the Future,” the Group supports the advance toward a sustainable future through its wide range of businesses in Energy, Digital Infrastructure, and Devices & Technology. In fiscal year 2025, Toshiba Group recorded sales of 3.7 trillion yen and had 94,000 employees worldwide. Find out more on our website or follow us on LinkedIn.

About Toshiba America, Inc.

Founded in 1965, Toshiba America, Inc. (TAI) is a subsidiary of Japan-based Toshiba Corporation and the holding company for Toshiba’s Americas operations. Through its group companies, Toshiba delivers advanced technologies and innovative solutions that support critical infrastructure, energy systems, industrial applications, semiconductors, and workplace technology. As a longtime supporter of STEM education, Toshiba is proud to sponsor ExploraVision and help inspire the next generation of innovators. Companies supporting the program include Toshiba Corporation, Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc., Toshiba America Energy Systems Corporation, Toshiba International Corporation, and Toshiba America Business Solutions, Inc. Learn more at website and follow us on LinkedIn.

About NSTA

The National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) is a vibrant community of 35,000 science educators and professionals committed to best practices in teaching science and its impact on student learning. NSTA offers high-quality science resources and continuous learning so that science educators grow professionally and excel in their careers. For new and experienced teachers alike, the NSTA community offers the opportunity to network with like-minded peers at the national level, connect with mentors and leading researchers, and learn from the best in the field. For more information, visit https://www.nsta.org or follow NSTA on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Bluesky.

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