The New Jersey School Boards Association is proud to announce the launch of the 2026 STEAM Tank Challenge application. Inspired by the belief that today’s students are tomorrow’s inventors, advocates, and changemakers, this year’s theme — From Imagination to Impact — captures the spirit of what makes STEAM Tank a powerful engine for student innovation and leadership.

Since its inception, the STEAM Tank Challenge has given thousands of New Jersey students the opportunity to dream boldly, think critically, and engineer solutions to real-world problems. Whether students are designing climate-smart technologies, improving community health, or tackling everyday challenges with creativity and compassion, STEAM Tank empowers young minds to transform their ideas into tangible impact.

For the 2026 cycle, we're inviting teams for all grade levels to submit applications that demonstrate not only their ingenuity, but also their commitment to creating a better future. With entry points for classrooms, STEM clubs, after-school programs, and capstone courses, STEAM Tank is more accessible and equitable than ever before — and it’s designed to meet students where they are.

Let this be the year your students move from imagination to impact. Apply now, and help them build the skills, confidence, and courage to lead. 

The application deadline has been extended to January 2, 2026 . 

We look forward to meeting your teams this season !