Global science company 3M launched the “3M Inspire Challenge,” which calls on students to submit their most innovative ideas around the areas of technology, sustainability, and innovation. Open to students in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, the challenge will have cash prizes for each stage and internships at local 3M offices.

The 3M Inspire Challenge is the latest addition to 3M’s diverse ecosystem of community engagements to make a positive impact in the fields of science and education, and champion a diverse talent pipeline.

“At 3M, science is at the heart of everything we do,” said Kevin McGuigan, managing director, 3M Southeast Asia Region and Country Leader, Singapore. “We strive to solve today’s challenges by delivering innovative solutions that help improve lives around the world. The 3M Inspire Challenge is therefore here to inspire great ideas in technology, sustainability, and innovation, and support the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and creators.”

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The inaugural competition of 3M’s standalone challenge will run across two stages. The first stage, known as the Country-Level Semi-Finals, will see students face-off against their local peers in a live judging panel on Aug. 24, 2021. The winners of this stage will take the title of “Country Champion,” awarded a cash prize of $1,000 and internships at local 3M offices.

The Country Champion will then proceed to the second stage or the regional finals, to compete against all other Country Champions. The winning team will be crowned “Regional Champion” and walk away with $2,000 cash prize.

Throughout the challenge, participants will also enjoy access to 3M mentors from diverse backgrounds who will sharpen their ideas in preparation for the Country-Level Semi-Finals and Regional-Level Finals.

Mechanics

Interested participants can now register their groups at The 3M Inspire Challenge website. Groups should consist of two to four students, and at least one male and one female member.

3M also partners with various organizations such as the Department of Science and Technology and Mano Amiga Academy to provide high-quality STEM educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.