UW-Stout to Host Third Make48 Competition of 2026, Bringing High-Stakes Innovation to Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University
- Make48+Team
- 15 hours ago
- 2 min read
MENOMONIE, WI (April 9, 2026) – Make48 is heading back to the University of Wisconsin-Stout, Wisconsin’s only Polytechnic University. UW-Stout will host the third Make48 competition of the 2026 season from July 31 to August 2nd. This fast-paced, 48-hour collaborative invent-a-thon will bring together the brightest minds to solve a real-world challenge in a race against the clock.
From Classroom to Competition
The road to UW-Stout follows a massive nationwide "Classroom Challenge" tour, where the most successful regional teams have secured their places. Throughout the semester, students across the country earned their spots by solving real-world problems, with the highest-performing teams earning their spots at the LIVE 48-hour event.
The competition will be centered in UW-Stout’s FabLab, a hub that perfectly mirrors the university’s polytechnic mission. At UW-Stout, hands-on learning isn't just a buzzword; it's the standard, with labs and studios outnumbering traditional classrooms 3 to 1.
“The FabLab’s emphasis on hands-on learning and interdisciplinary collaboration perfectly embodies UW-Stout’s approach to education,” said Seth Hudson, Executive Director of Corporate Relations & Economic Engagement. “Hosting Make48 allows us to showcase that spirit of innovation while strengthening our ties to the community.”
Strengthening Community & Industry Ties
Beyond the competition, the event highlights the unique synergy between UW-Stout and the city of Menomonie. Supporters, industry partners, and the local community are encouraged to follow the journey. This partnership fosters a culture of applied learning and career-focused experiences that prepare the next generation of workforce leaders.
Winners from this local competition will get a ticket to the national stage this Fall. To register, volunteer, or learn more about the event, visit: https://www.make48.com/2026-uw-stout
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About UW-Stout
UW-Stout, Wisconsin’s Polytechnic University, supports career-focused applied learning and research through real-world experiences and offers engagement opportunities with its business and industry partners. Its graduates have a 99% employment rate within six months of graduation. The FabLab, a jewel among the nearly 300 labs and studios on UW-Stout’s campus, provides innovators, artists, and creators access to state-of-the-art 3D printers, laser cutters, and leading-edge digital fabrication tools. Open to both students and community members, this facility serves as a launchpad for turning imaginative ideas into reality. https://www.uwstout.edu/
About Make48
Make48 is a nationwide invention competition docuseries that gives teams a challenge at the start of a three-day event. With just 48 hours, teams must create a prototype, promotional video, and sales sheet, and present their idea to a panel of judges. The teams have access to a makerspace and numerous Tool Techs that can make almost anything, patent attorneys, marketing experts, and more. This format allows everyone to have a level playing field and the chance to win, with no prior technical knowledge necessary.
Make48 Media Contact
Cassandra Muñoz
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