The first European Inventor Network Forum
On 5 May, participants from 12 countries gathered for the inaugural European Inventor Network Forum, an event dedicated to sharing best practices to inspire inventive curiosity in younger generations.
Founded in 2023, the European Inventor Network brings together former finalists and winners of the European Inventor Award and the Young Inventors Prize, alongside entrepreneurs, science teachers, professors and various figures from the science world. Network members aim to inspire the next generation of inventors by arranging activities that promote science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and innovation to children and teenagers across Europe. Supported by grants from the EPO, the European Inventor Network has implemented 110 activities across 30 member states over the past three years.
Exploring school activities
The forum was moderated by Professor Wolfgang M. Heckl, former Director General of the Deutsches Museum and 2026 European Inventor Award jury chair. Three members, Pablo Sosa (Young Inventors Prize 2025), Steve Lindsey (European Inventor Award 2017) and Chloé Carriere (space engineer and science communicator), shared concrete insights from their experiences and emphasised the need for creativity, storytelling and interactive, relatable experiences for pupils.
During breakout sessions, inventors, STEM teachers and professors explored ways to simplify complex science and prepare workshop materials. These discussions produced practical advice on engaging young audiences, drawing on participants' diverse professional perspectives.
A brief workshop on patents, intellectual property and the role of the EPO rounded off the day. The workshop sparked interest, with members eager to explore patents in their work with younger generations.
Help empower the next generation of inventors
The 2026 programme is already under way, reaching thousands of children across multiple scientific topics in settings ranging from schools to labs. The Network’s call for activities is still open, and scientists, inventors and STEM teachers are invited to propose inspiring activities for primary and secondary school pupils aged 6-18. Selected proposals will be awarded grants of between EUR 2 000 and EUR 6 000, depending on their scope and impact.
The grant application form is linked below if you would like to propose an activity or know someone who may be interested.
