The Lemelson Foundation Story
Inspiring and educating the next generation of inventors and catalyzing their ideas into invention-based businesses and commercial technologies.
We believe inventors will solve our biggest challenges and improve lives in communities in the United States and around the world.
Our Strategic Funding Areas
The Lemelson Foundation harnesses the power of invention and innovation to accelerate climate action and improve lives around the world.
“Sustainability describes fundamental changes in the ways we power our world and interact with the Earth and each other on an individual and societal level — a globally decarbonized society that is more equitable, hopeful, and just.”
Eric Lemelson
President, The Lemelson Foundation
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Seven Women Making History and Inventing the Future
In commemoration of Women’s History Month, read about these pioneering inventors from the past and present.
VertueLab
VertueLab is a nonprofit that supports climate tech entrepreneurs and cleantech startups in the Pacific Northwest that might otherwise have…
On World Engineering Day: Excellence in Engineering Redefined
Every year on March 4, World Engineering Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the invaluable role engineering excellence plays…
From Dream to Patent: The Lemelson Foundation’s Commitment to Equitable Invention
Black History Month is a time for reflection, celebration, and a renewed commitment to acknowledging and uplifting the immense contributions…
The Food Allergy Detective
This young inventor created an AI-enabled, electronic nose to sniff out allergens lurking in your food.
Nonprofit Association of Oregon
The Nonprofit Association of Oregon (NAO) advocates for charitable nonprofits of all sizes and purposes at the local, state, and…
Inventing Our Future: A National Inventors’ Day Celebration
A message from Rob Schneider, Executive Director, The Lemelson Foundation
Envisioning a Safer Eye Exam
This young inventor created a synthetic model eye to help medical students train for optical procedures.