Missouri Launches Show-Me SCIENCE

In April 2026, Missouri will hold its first-ever 6th-12th-grade state science, invention, and engineering competition affiliated with the International Science and Engineering Fair.

The Show-Me SCIENCE competition, to be held at St. Charles Community College, April 15 & 16, 2026, is part of a broader initiative to build a robust STEM environment in Missouri that supports, elevates, and celebrates student research and invention across the state, establishing Missouri as a leader in cultivating young scientists and STEM professionals.  

The distinguishing feature of the Show-Me SCIENCE competition is that student projects are professional-level research studies that have undergone rigorous judging and have earned a spot to compete at the state level by placing at regional competitions. 

All students in grades 6-12 at public, private, and home schools in Missouri who qualify at an official regional fair affiliated with ISEF are eligible to participate in the Show-Me SCIENCE Competition. Additionally, students who do not have access to an official regional fair may also compete if they meet the established criteria. 

Top award winners at Show-Me SCIENCE will advance to the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair, in Phoenix, Arizona, May 9-15, 2026, as well as other national and international competitions. 

Science Coach is excited to be leading the coalition of teachers, science fair directors and STEM representatives beind Show-Me SCIENCE. 

In this inaugural year, the coalition secured dollars from private donors to conduct the state-level competition and provide crucial financial support to the eight regional fairs across the state, some of which are at risk of closing. There are already parts of the state where regional fairs have been shuttered due to funding shortages, leaving some students without access to science competitions. 

The coalition will continue to pursue and secure long-term funding to ensure the state’s science competition infrastructure remains viable. Additionally, plans are to expand the Show-Me SCIENCE competition in year two to include an expo component with activities for students of all ages. 

There are a range of ways to become involved in Show-Me Science

• Volunteer to help with the event
• Serve as a judge for the competition entries
• Sponsor the event and/or special awards
• Donate