Want to enter The Big Bang Competition? Whether you're aiming to solve a big problem or a small one, creativity is key! Here are 5 inspiring project ideas that might spark your imagination.
Remember, your project doesn’t need to be perfect, fully possible, or even finished. Our judges are looking for innovative thinking, passion, and a well-thought-out approach.
Health and wellbeing
Consider how you could use technology and innovation to create a healthier, happier world. The IHEEM award recognises projects that do just that! Here are some ideas:
- For example, you could design a water bottle that cleans itself after each use and helps improve sanitation
- What about a wearable technology that tracks vital signs like heart rate, temperature, and oxygen levels, alerting users if something’s wrong
- Maybe you could design a lamp that adjusts its color and brightness based on your mood, helping to improve mental well-being
Whatever your idea might be consider how you’d make it work in the real world. How long might it take to make? What materials would be required? Who would benefit from this invention?
Climate change
Engineers and scientists are helping solve climate change issues by thinking up big ideas to reduce our impact on the planet. Could you think of a project that does this too? The Energy Institute is celebrating big ideas that help make a difference.
- Perhaps you could design a solar-powered rubbish compactor to help compost waste to be used again in parks and gardens
- You could design a smart system that uses weather data to optimize energy use for homes, saving water and reducing waste
- Tackle plastic pollution and design eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging materials that break down quickly without leaving harmful chemicals behind
Think about who it would help (local councils, communities, or parks) and what resources you would need (solar panels, motors, sensors).
Sustainable transport
Transportation in cities is a big challenge, especially when it comes to reducing emissions and saving space. Network Rail judges would love to see projects that help our community and improve transport for their passengers.
- A foldable, eco-friendly bike could be the perfect solution for city commuters who need a convenient, green option to get to the train station
- Help tidy up buses, trains and planes using a robot that picks up rubbish in public spaces, reducing litter
- Feeling adventurous? You could design more efficient transport using magnets to glide smoothly above the ground, reducing friction and making it faster and energy-efficient
Ask yourself: How long would it take to prototype this? How much space would it need for storage?
A revolutionary invention
Could you patent the next amazing invention? Think big and get recognised with the intellectual property office!
- Imagine a helmet that can filter and purify the air you breathe in, offering protection against pollution and allergens.
- Make water available wherever you are – could a portable device turn seawater into fresh drinking water using only solar power?
- Get help in school! Help your teacher and design an AI assistant to help students with their work, offering explanations and answering questions
Think about where and who would benefit from your idea, and how to design it for comfort and practicality.
A local problem
Maybe you could help solve a problem close to home - think about a project that addresses a local issue.
- For example, you could design a low-cost, easy-to-maintain water filtration system for your community
- Design an irrigation system for local community gardens, helping them become more bio-diverse with minimal water usage
- What about a community bike-sharing initiative that encourages eco-friendly travel and reduces congestion in busy areas
Consider the resources needed (filters, pipes, materials) and think about who would benefit most — perhaps those living in rural or big cities.
No idea is too big or too small! If your idea has challenges, don't worry. Our judges love to see how you plan to overcome problems, learn, and improve your designs. Submit a written entry, drawings or a video explaining your project.
Plus, win extra special prizes from our supporters – some of the ideas mentioned above would be great starting points to be in with a chance to win big!