2026 AECT Design & Development Competition Timeline

Last updated

August 11, 2026: Extended due dates for Phase 2

Phase 1: Abstract

• April 15, Wednesday – Competition materials released; Phase 1 opens
• May 7, Thursday – 4:00 PM US EDT – Orientation webinar hosted by the AECT Design & Development Competition Coordinating Committee
• June 1, Monday (11:59 PM US EDT) – Deadline for Phase 1 question
  • Note: Responses to questions are shared via the competition microsite
• June 15, Monday (11:59 PM US EDT) – Deadline for Phase 1 submissions
• Updated: July 3, Friday – Teams notified of Phase 1 results

Phase 2: Proposal – All dates updated

• August 21 to September 18  – Selected teams work with mentors to develop full proposals
• September 4, Friday (11:59 PM US EDT) – Deadline for Phase 2 questions
  • Note: Responses to questions are shared with all Phase 2 teams
• September 18, Friday (11:59 PM US EDT) – Deadline for Phase 2 submissions
• September 30, Wednesday – Up to three finalist teams notified

Phase 3: Finalist Presentations

• November 3–7, 2026 – AECT Annual Convention (in person)
  • Finalist presentation schedule: 
    • Tuesday
      • Tech Check: 3:30 PM
      • Meet and greet: 8:00 PM
    • Wednesday
      • Design & Development Competition (Finalist Presentations): 2:00 – 4:00 PM