The Challenge 2025

What is The Challenge?

The Challenge is a pitch competition hosted by the Mensa Foundation. It was created in response to findings from the Foundation’s recent Unmet Needs Study, which revealed that many gifted individuals lack consistent access to meaningful intellectual stimulation and opportunities to apply their abilities in impactful ways.

This 4 hour in-person event will take place on July 3, 2025 during the 2025 American Mensa Annual Gathering Chicago, IL.

The Challenge also marks the beginning of a long-term effort to mobilize the intelligence of the Mensa Foundation community in service of solving real-world problems.

Registration Closes June 18, 2025.

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Details

Competiton Guide

Explore essential details about The Challenge.

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Prompt

Define human intelligence and describe how American society can better value human intelligence. Further, how might this appreciation be achieved?

Eligibility

Open to all AG registrants and their guests aged 15 or older
Individuals or teams of up to 2 people may enter
No additional fee to participate

Judging Criteria

Originality – Does the pitch offer a unique perspective?
Clarity – Is it clearly communicated?
Feasibility – Could it be explored or applied?
Delivery – Is it engaging and well-presented?

Resources

Participants will be given access to a comptuter with PowerPoint and projection screen to support their presentation. Slides must be provided during check-in.

Prize

The winning pitch will be featured on the Mensa Foundation blog and shared in the Insights Newsletter. Additionally, there will be a cash prize for the top 3 pitches.

1st place – $500
2nd place – $250
3rd place – $100

Schedule

12:00 – 12:45 PM

Check-In

12:45 – 1:00 PM

Doors Open

1:00 – 1:15 PM

Welcome & Introductions

1:15 – 2:30 PM

Presentations

2:30 – 2:45 PM

Break

2:45 PM – 4:00 PM