Help inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators!
Things to Consider
Spark STEM Fest exhibitors engage directly with the public, providing hands-on, interactive STEM-learning opportunities for all ages.
Spark STEM Fest exhibitors are expected to:
- Share what you do and how you use STEM applications as part of your work.
- Engage the public through either an activity or demonstration in an interactive manner.
- Tailor both content and activities for maximum engagement and impact with our audience.
When planning your exhibit, keep the following in mind:
- The exhibit should be designed to promote understanding of topics in STEM.
- All materials and activities must be safe and appropriate for a family audience.
- If applicable, include safety precautions, and age requirements in your proposal.
- Think of activities that are engaging with open-ended discovery and provide opportunities for informal conversations between you and the visitor.
Hands-on activity:
- Pick a simple task that teaches people of all ages about a specific topic and allows them to be active participants so they can see themselves as scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and doctors!
- Choose a simple activity that 3-5 participants can do at one time.
- The activity should last about 5 minutes to ensure that a steady stream of visitors can move in and out throughout the day.
- Expect about 500 visitors to your booth each day – be sure you have enough supplies to last the day.
Tips for Maximizing Face-to-Face Interaction:
- This is the public’s chance to meet and interact with STEM professionals. Smiling volunteers with high energy and enthusiasm can be even more effective than any activity.
- 4 - 6 people staffing your activity is ideal and allows for breaks for volunteers.
- Encourage conversations with visitors—ask questions that require visitors to think about or observe something. Let their responses and curiosity drive your interaction.
Need Help Creating Your Exhibit?
Download our guide below to gain tips and tricks for creating a captivating exhibit booth and ensuring your proposal aligns with the event’s goals and guidelines.
Need some activity theme ideas?
Create a catchy title and description for your exhibit. Here’s why! A captivating title and description for your experience helps to encourage visitors of all ages to participate and helps break down barriers for those who may be intimidated by science and technology.
Here are some ideas for your exhibit themes/activities:
- The Smart Energy Experience
- Feathers, Scales, & Tails Vet Med
- Savings Endangered Species
- Bacteria: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
- Explore the Magic of Chemistry
- The Science behind Music
- Weird Science Weirder Art
- Explore the Art and Science of
- Architecture
- Science of Construction
- CSI
- 3-D printing prosthetics
- The Science of Cycling!
- Power from Potatoes?
- The Chemistry and Microbiology of good food
- What Critters Live in Our Streams
- From Farm to Table: The Science Behind Your Pizza
- Science on the Farm
- Science Education Kitchen
- Sparking Curiosity about Energy
- Experiment with Sports
- The Secret Science of Sports
- Design It, Build It, Test It!
- Grossology: The Science of Icky, Sticky, Disgusting Things
- Military Gear – The Science of Safe Armor
- Serious Games
- Games as Cultural Tools in Science Education
- Video games – can they change our brains?
- Sensors: See How Cars See
- Self-Driving Vehicles and Drones that Fly!
- Materials Science: Designing Materials for a Better World
- Minecraft! The Science of Crafting
- Exploring the Developing Brain
- Language Science for Everyone
- DEEP SPACE Robot Maneuvering,
Gravity Games!
Still Have Questions? We’re here to help! Contact us at sparkstemfest@osc.org
Submit Your Proposal – Extended to December 22
What is the Selection Process?
Individuals representing all STEM fields and levels are welcome to submit proposals. Exhibitors will be chosen based on their potential interest to attendees and relevance to current trends and best practices. Please note that this event attracts families with children. Preference will be given to those topics that serve diverse audiences.
Each completed registration will be reviewed for approval. Applicants will receive notification of acceptance or regret as soon as possible or by January 15.
Help promote the event and your participation!
We count on each exhibitor’s support to help spread the word about Spark STEM Fest and showcase the exciting experiences guests can expect at your booth. Promoting your participation through your social media, blogs, websites, newsletters, or other communication channels helps us reach diverse audiences across the region—and builds anticipation for the event!
The 2026 Marketing Kit will be available in December, giving you plenty of time to start promoting your participation before the new year. It will include:
- Customizable templates
- Sample captions and hashtags
- Event logos and graphics
- Tips for maximizing engagement
For Inquiries, please contact jstanford@osc.org.