Make48 is a nationwide invention-competition docuseries. For the last eight years, the series has been a syndicated television program through PBS and has now partnered with “This Old House Makers” channel on Roku for seasons 6–8.
Since 2015, Make48 has launched more than 25 innovation-based competitions in which creative minds of all ages develop a new product at the start of a three-day event. With just 48 hours, teams plan, prototype, and pitch a new idea, within the specifications of the challenge.
Teams utilize a variety of tools, materials, makerspaces, and access to qualified expert “Tool Techs” that assist them with the provided fabrication tools to prototype ideas of ranging complexity. No prior invention experience is necessary. The winner is announced at the end of the 48-hour window.
Make48 gives students a chance to create the next big idea too. The Make48 Innovation Experience is a flexible and adaptable set of resources and curriculum that teachers and students can use to bring the Make48 competition experience to their classroom or club.
Make48 will present 32 real-world challenges in September 2025. Students aged 14–22 in schools and educational programs across the country will form teams of three and develop innovative product solutions by mid-November, when they will submit a one-minute video showcasing their concept to a panel of business partners. Winners will be selected in December based on their idea’s market potential—with the winning student team and teacher receiving prizes and an invitation to compete at a televised Make48 regional playoff event in 2026, bringing the students and their teacher one step closer to the national championship.
Key date: Students need to register before March 1, 2025, to secure their spot in the competition, join a bracket, and compete with innovative students across the nation in the 2025–26 national championship.