Courses
ATU to host the fourth edition of Invent For The Planet
The fourth edition of Invent for the Planet (IFTP) will be hosted by ATU Galway, a global innovation competition challenging student to create solutions for some of the world’s most pressing problems. The top teams will have the opportunity to compete in the finals in Qatar, where they will pitch their solutions to an international panel of experts for a chance to win up to $10,000.
From 27 February to 1 March 2026, students from universities across Ireland and around the world will attend ATU’s Galway City campus to prototype and pitch ideas that address real-world challenges. Competitions are set by sponsors including industry partners, government agencies, and universities internationally.
“Invent for the Planet Ireland brings together students from all around the country, and their energy, teamwork, and creativity make me incredibly proud of what we have built at ATU over the last four years of hosting this event,” said Jack Saad, ATU lecturer and event lead.
“Last year, the Irish team reached the global finals in Texas, where out of more than 100 teams worldwide, only six teams were selected. That achievement says everything about the talent and potential of our students”, he added.
The Irish leg of this global competition has a strong track record. In 2025, the winning team from ATU Galway travelled to Texas to represent Ireland in the world championships. This year, the international finals will be held in Qatar, where teams will pitch their solutions to a panel of experts for a chance to win up to $10,000.
The event is open to all third-level students, from undergraduates to PhD candidates, across any discipline. Successful applicants will be provided with meals during the event, and accommodation will be arranged for those traveling from outside Galway.
“I am deeply grateful to our sponsors over the years, especially AMCS this year, and to the amazing mentors and organising teams from BIM and the Marine Institute who build this event since 2022 together with ATU”, shared Jack.
Places are limited to 30 participants which will be shortlisted through completing the Expression of Interest Form available here.
Submissions will be accepted until 5pm on 5 February 2026.
Photo Caption: Competition winners from ATU Galway in Texas at the world championships in 2025.
