InnoWorks is an innovative science and engineering initiative “By Students, For Students,” designed and implemented by college volunteers for middle-school students from disadvantaged backgrounds. InnoWorks programs are offered entirely free of charge for all underprivileged students nominated by local school systems, including program materials, books, transportation, food, and awards. It is the flagship program of United InnoWorks Academy (UIA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organization founded in 2003. The primary goals of InnoWorks are to:

1. provide students from underprivileged backgrounds with an opportunity to explore the real-world links among science and engineering disciplines,
2. promote teamwork, enthusiasm for learning, and career interests in science and engineering,
3. utilize cutting-edge neuroscience and educational research to develop mentoring and pedagogical methods that build problem-solving skills and student confidence,
4. harness higher-education expertise to benefit youth and foster the development of synergistic relationships between universities and communities, and
5. develop opportunities to inspire volunteerism, passion for service, and entrepreneurship in college students to prepare them as tomorrow’s educators, leaders, and role models.

InnoWorks is organized to leverage the grass-roots energy of university students to benefit local communities. For more information on Duke's involvement in Innoworks, please click here.