Children's Free Ideas Will Shape Japan's Future. 57th Ichimura Idea Contest Opens for Entries July 1

The Ichimura Foundation for the Promotion of Science and Technology (Ota Ward, Tokyo) will begin accepting applications for the 57th "Ichimura Idea Contest" on July 1, 2026 (Wed.). To coincide with this, the official website, which more clearly introduces application methods and past award-winning works, has been renewed and released.

The Ichimura Idea Contest is a nationwide award program held annually with the aim of fostering the creativity and scientific curiosity of elementary and junior high school students, and recognizing free ideas and ingenuity. The theme is open, including ideas for making life more convenient, environmentally friendly concepts, and inspirations born from everyday observations. A key feature is that applications can be submitted with just drawings and explanations, even if a craft or prototype has not yet been completed.

Last year, 35,512 entries were received from across the country, and the free ideas of many children were recognized. Award recipients are selected through a rigorous screening process by experts in each field, with awards including the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award. Winners are invited to an award ceremony held at the Tokyo International Forum, where their creativity and efforts are celebrated. In addition to individual awards, there are also group awards for organizations that support children's creative activities, such as schools and invention clubs.

Shinome Junior High School, Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture, received the Excellent Group Award and two individual awards in the 56th (2025) contest.

The application period for the 57th contest is from July 1, 2026 (Wed.) to September 7, 2026 (Mon.), with submissions to arrive by the deadline. The contest is open to elementary and junior high school students nationwide, and applications can be made individually or through groups such as schools and invention clubs. Application guidelines and forms can be downloaded from the renewed official website.

The Ichimura Foundation for the Promotion of Science and Technology hopes that the free ideas of each individual, such as "I wish I had something like this" or "This would be more convenient if it were like this," will lead to future science and technology and a prosperous society, and looks forward to receiving applications from many children.

[Application Overview] ■ Application Period: July 1, 2026 (Wed.) - September 7, 2026 (Mon.) (must arrive by deadline) ■ Eligibility: Elementary and junior high school students nationwide (individual and group applications accepted) ■ How to Apply: Fill out the application form with your idea and mail it (no need to send a prototype) ■ Official Website: https://www.sgkz.or.jp/develop/

Sponsorship: Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, The Asahi Shimbun, Asahi Shogakusei Shimbun

[Contact Information] Ichimura Foundation for the Promotion of Science and Technology, Ichimura Idea Contest Secretariat 1-26-10 Kitamago, Ota Ward, Tokyo 143-0021 TEL: 03-3775-2021 FAX: 03-3775-2020 E-mail: zaidan-mado@sgkz.or.jp