Community Projects Competition by FPSPI
by Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI) Inc.
International Recognition
A project-based competition where students in grades 4-12 tackle real-world community issues using a creative problem-solving process.
Mode
Hybrid
Fee
$795
Participation format
Individual and team
Teams of 1 to 15
Duration
Full Academic Year
Time needed
Depends on the time taken to make the entry
Eligibility
Open to students in grades 4-12, divided into Junior (4-6), Middle (7-9), and Senior (10-12) divisions. Students can participate individually or in teams. The program is open to all students across India who register through a school or an FPSPI affiliate.
- Grade level
- Grade 4 to 12
- Age range
- 9 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- No specific academic requirements. A strong interest in community service and problem-solving is recommended.
- Prerequisites
- Interest in community service
- Creative problem-solving skills
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Trophies & Medals
Top-placing projects at the affiliate and international levels are awarded trophies and medals.
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
Participants receive a certificate acknowledging their involvement in this internationally recognized program.
Opens doors to
Participation enhances portfolios for higher education applications by showcasing real-world project management and leadership skills.
Recognition
International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 1 Aug 2026
- Registration closes
- 14 Jan 2027
- Competition
- 9 Jun 2027 to 13 Jun 2027
- Results
- 13 Jun 2027
Project Proposal Submission Deadline
Deadline for submitting initial project proposals outlining the identified community problem and proposed solutions.
Affiliate Competition Submission Deadline
Final date for submitting detailed reports, portfolios, and promotional videos for affiliate-level evaluation. Ensure all materials are uploaded to the FPSOnline portal by 11:59 PM IST.
International Conference Registration and payment deadline
International Conference Registration and Payment Deadline
International Conference Event Dates
The International Conference typically runs for several days, culminating in awards and recognition.
Indiana University Bloomington (International Conference), Bloomington, Indiana
How to apply
- 1Register through a school or a local/open FPSPI affiliate program.
- 2Identify a community problem and develop a project proposal using the six-step FPSPI model.
- 3Implement the project and document all progress and outcomes.
- 4Submit a detailed report, a portfolio, and a promotional video for evaluation.
- 5Winners from affiliate competitions are invited to the FPSPI International Conference.
Rules and guidelines
- All work submitted must be original and created by the students.
- Projects must adhere to the guidelines and deadlines set by the FPSPI affiliate.
- While a team can have unlimited members for the project, a maximum of 15 can participate in on-site activities at the International Conference.
Technology requirements
- Computer with internet access for research and submission.
- Access to a camera for creating a promotional video.
- Video editing software for post-production.
- Productivity software for creating reports and portfolios.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
An annual coach fee of approximately $40-$50 USD is required for the Open Affiliate program. Winners invited to the International Conference have a registration fee of around $795 USD for on-campus participation, which includes housing and meals. Off-campus options are available at a reduced rate.
Financial support
FPSPI offers the "Creating the Future" scholarship for graduating secondary school students with a history of participation in the program. This scholarship recognizes exceptional dedication and application of creative problem-solving skills.
Refund policy
Cancellation policies are detailed during registration for the International Conference. A service fee may apply to any changes or cancellations.
About this opportunity
The Community Projects is a part of the Future Problem Solving Program International (FPSPI), which empowers students to become active change-makers. This project-based competition challenges individuals or teams to apply a six-step problem-solving model to identify, analyze, and resolve local community issues, creating a tangible and positive impact.
Open to students from grades 4 through 12, the program encourages participants to take full ownership of their projects. By engaging with local authorities and community leaders, students develop crucial 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, leadership, and project management. Top projects from affiliate competitions earn an invitation to the prestigious FPSPI International Conference, providing global recognition.
Rounds and format
The competition typically consists of two main stages: 1. Affiliate Level Competition: Students compete within their country or region. 2. International Conference: Winners from affiliate competitions advance to the international finals.
How entries are judged
Projects are evaluated based on the application of the six-step problem-solving process, community engagement and impact, effective communication across all submitted materials (report, video, portfolio), and creativity. The evaluation is conducted using a rubric-based system.
Selection process
Winning projects from affiliate-level competitions are invited to the International Conference. Selection is based on the scores awarded by evaluators according to the official CmPS Evaluation Guidelines.
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The program is based on the six-step Future Problem Solving model, adapted for real-world community projects.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key strategies for students to excel in the Community Projects Competition?
Students should focus on a thorough application of the six-step problem-solving model, demonstrate genuine community engagement, ensure clear and compelling communication in all submissions, and showcase originality in their project's approach and impact. Consistent effort and adherence to guidelines are crucial for success.
How can participants manage competitive pressure and potential setbacks during the project implementation phase?
Participants are encouraged to view challenges as learning opportunities and adapt their plans as needed. Maintaining open communication with coaches and team members, focusing on the intrinsic value of community impact, and celebrating small victories can help mitigate pressure and sustain motivation throughout the competition.
What common mistakes should students avoid when preparing their project submissions for evaluation?
Common pitfalls include not adhering to word counts or page limits, submitting incorrectly formatted entries, or failing to clearly articulate the problem-solving process. Students must ensure all work is original, appropriate for all audiences, and directly addresses the identified community issue with a well-documented action plan.
How are projects ranked, and what factors contribute most to a high score in the Community Projects Competition?
Projects are evaluated using rubric-based guidelines, with scores based on the problem-solving process, community engagement, effective communication, project ownership, and creativity. Each project receives multiple evaluations, and a composite score determines placement. Strong evidence of student-led initiative and tangible community impact are highly valued.
What is the significance of the International Conference for students who qualify through the affiliate competition?
The International Conference offers a global platform for students to showcase their projects, network with peers from around the world, and gain international recognition. It provides an invaluable experience for personal growth, cultural exchange, and further development of leadership and problem-solving skills.
What kind of support is available for coaches guiding student teams?
Coaches receive comprehensive support including access to online resources, training webinars, and direct contact with FPSPI affiliate coordinators. Regular updates and a dedicated coach's handbook are provided to assist in guiding student teams through every stage of the competition.
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