People of Play™ Launches Fall Fundraiser for Young Inventor Challenge®

tariffs stock photoSeptember 1, 2025 | People of Play™, a division of The Toy Association™, is marking a milestone with the 20th anniversary of its Young Inventor Challenge® (YIC), a program that has introduced thousands of kids to the toy and game industry over the past two decades. To celebrate, People of Play has launched a fundraising campaign running from September 1 to 20 with a goal of raising $20,000 to help sustain the program for the next generation of inventors.

The YIC, taking place this year on November 8 in Rosemont, IL, is supported through sponsorships and individual contributions. Make a contribution here and learn how your donation will make an impact:

  • $25 provides a scholarship for one young inventor to submit their toy or game.
  • $50 covers a partial month of hosting the online submission platform.
  • $150 sponsors a table for a young inventor to showcase their creation at the 2025 YIC.

“Over the past 20 years, the Young Inventor Challenge has given kids the chance to dream big, bring their ideas to life, and learn how innovation becomes reality,” said Ahren Hoffman, director of the Young Inventor Challenge. “This fundraiser will help us expand our impact to continue inspiring the next generation of creators.”

In addition to giving, People of Play is encouraging supporters to spread the word on social media, ask companies to match donations, and volunteer as judges for this year’s event.

The Young Inventor Challenge provides children and teens ages 6 to 18 with the opportunity to design, develop, and pitch original toy and game concepts directly to industry professionals. Submissions, now open through October 26, can be made online with the option of presenting in-person at the annual event; participants gain valuable experience in creativity, critical thinking, and presentation skills.

The YIC is one of several events that takes place during People of Play’s annual POP Week — taking place November 5 to 9 in Rosemont, IL — including the Inventor Pitch & Innovation Conference, TAGIE Awards, and Chicago Toy & Game Fair.