When can I apply?

The application window for the 2026 Cade Prize competition is open from April 1, 2026 through July 10, 2026. Sign up for our email list to get notified when applications open.

What are the eligibility requirements?

The Cade Prize is open to:

• Independent inventors and incorporated companies in all development areas
• Nonprofits, for profits, and B corporations
• Applicants based in the United States of America
• Applicants with no more than $500,000 in outside investment funding from investors received in exchange for stock, convertible note, or other similar instrument issued by the company (excluding grants, personal funds, in-kind support, competition prizes, or loans from friends and family).

What are the criteria considered by the judges?

The judges will be looking at inventors and entrepreneurs, who, through an innovative invention, demonstrate a creative approach to addressing problems in their field of expertise. Specifically, they are looking for:

• Overall creativity, impact, and potential
• Breadth and depth of impact
• Likelihood of success
• Market and magic: IP Protection

Who are the judges and how are they selected?

Judges will be selected by the Cade Prize Committee and Cade Museum staff. Past judges have included investors, government leaders, and entrepreneurs representing different industries and fields. Judges are selected from across the nation based on their expertise and contributions to the innovation ecosystem.

Do I, or my company, need to be based in Florida?

No, in 2023 the Cade Prize became a national competition and we are excited to celebrate inventors and entrepreneurs from all over the United States.

Can one innovation be entered into multiple categories?

No. When applying, please choose a single category that most closely fits your application.

Can I enter more than one innovation in a single season?

Yes. They will be judged as separate applications.

If I have applied in the past, can I apply again?

Yes. If at first you don’t succeed, by all means, apply again!