The South Carolina State Museum has been selected as one of four recipients nationwide of the InventEd Regional Summit Award, an honor that includes a $25,000 grant from the InventEd Network. The award recognizes the museum’s leadership in promoting invention, innovation, and entrepreneurship throughout South Carolina.
The museum’s proposal was chosen from a large group of applicants representing universities, museums, and nonprofit organizations across 15 states. According to the InventEd review committee, the museum stood out for its approach to strengthening invention education and connecting various stakeholders.
Funds from the award will be used for the 250 Years of South Carolina Innovation Regional Summit scheduled for 2026. This event is planned to coincide with America’s 250th birthday and aims to bring together educators, inventors, entrepreneurs, government officials, community members, and industry leaders. The goal is to develop strategies that support invention education and help prepare young people in South Carolina for careers in technology and innovation.
Research gathered at the summit will also contribute to the museum’s Reimagine the Experience campaign and its future Innovation Wing—a space designed for visitors to explore creativity and problem-solving through hands-on activities.
“This recognition from InventEd underscores the museum’s ongoing commitment to inspiring creativity and innovation across South Carolina,” said Dr. Jeffrey Brodie, SCSM chief content and engagement officer. “The Regional Summit and Innovation Wing will allow us to bring together educators, entrepreneurs and community leaders to empower the next generation of inventors in our State and beyond.”
InventEd’s Regional Summits are designed to foster collaboration among educators, organizations, program leaders, and others invested in creative learning. More information about InventEd can be found at inventioneducation.org.
Details about the upcoming summit will be announced in 2026.
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