Summary:
Med-El has launched the 2026 IDEASforEARS children’s invention contest, inviting kids aged 6–12 worldwide to design innovative hearing technologies that improve life for people with hearing loss, with winners earning a trip to Med-El’s headquarters in Austria.

Key Takeaways:

  • The IDEASforEARS contest encourages creativity, empathy, and problem-solving around hearing health, with entries accepted in any format until January 17, 2026 (U.S. deadline).
  • Med-El’s partnership with Microsoft enhances accessibility and collaboration through digital tools like live translation and interactive learning.
  • Since 2017, the contest has connected over 1,700 children from 45 countries, inspiring young innovators to envision the future of hearing technology.

Med-El USA has launched the 2026 IDEASforEARS children’s invention contest, inviting young visionaries aged 6 to 12 to imagine the future of hearing technology. Hosted by hearing implant company Med-El, the international competition challenges children to share their most creative ideas to improve the lives of people with hearing loss. Winners will have the opportunity to see their ideas celebrated on a global stage and earn a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Innsbruck, Austria, home to Med-El’s research and development headquarters. The submission deadline for applicants from the United States is January 17, 2026 (midnight ET).

Launched globally on World Inventors Day, IDEASforEARS is designed to inspire curiosity, empathy, and bold thinking. Entrants can present their ideas in any format, from drawings and models to videos or written stories­ – the only limit is imagination. By participating, children learn about the impact of hearing loss and discover how creativity and compassion can drive real-world change.

For the third consecutive year, Med-El is partnering with Microsoft as the official Technology Partner of IDEASforEARS. The collaboration enhances the contest experience through cutting-edge digital tools, including live translation, interactive learning, and accessibility features, making it easier than ever for young inventors around the world to share, connect, and create across borders.

Voices of Inspiration

“IDEASforEARS is where imagination meets impact,” says Geoffrey Ball, chief technical officer at the Med-El business unit Vibrant and head judge of the contest. “I have spent my life turning wild ideas into real technology, and I know that some of the best ideas come from kids who see the world differently. So, if you have got a spark of an idea – no matter how crazy it sounds – chase it. That is how innovation starts.”

Ball, who lost his hearing as a toddler, invented the Vibrant Soundbridge middle ear implant, restoring his own hearing and changing the field. With more than 100 patents to his name, he knows firsthand how a single spark of an idea can lead to life-changing breakthroughs.

“IDEASforEARS gives children a voice in shaping the future of hearing technology. Every year, we are amazed by their creativity and empathy. Their fresh perspectives help us reimagine what is possible, and we are proud to champion their ideas,” says Jennifer Robinson, corporate director of product management hearing solutions at Med-El.

A Global Platform for Young Problem-Solvers

Since its debut in 2017, IDEASforEARS has connected more than 1,700 children across 45 countries, uniting young thinkers who are passionate about helping others hear and be heard. According to Med-El, the contest has grown into a powerful global platform for raising awareness of hearing health and empowering the next generation of innovators.

All details and entry guidelines are available on the IDEASforEARS website.