Applications Now Closed
Every year, TIME recognizes products, software and services that are solving compelling problems in creative ways. We look for inventions across all categories - including technology, beauty, health care, food, home and entertainment - that are making the world better, smarter, or even a bit more fun. This prestigious list, curated by the editors of TIME, has generated more than 650 million global media impressions.
Best Inventions 2023
Applications are now closed
Every year, TIME recognizes products, software and services that are solving compelling problems in creative ways. We look for inventions across all categories - including technology, beauty, health care, food, home and entertainment - that are making the world better, smarter, or even a bit more fun.
Best Inventions from past years have included everything from a faster running shoe and plant-based pork to smarter electric cars and groundbreaking robots (see our full list of categories below). To be considered, your invention must have achieved—or be expected to achieve—at least one major milestone between November 2022 and September 2023. These could include debuting as a product, surpassing a sales goal, winning a major industry accolade, securing an important partnership, or unveiling a working prototype, among other accomplishments. We're expanding our categories this year in response to the rapidly-changing progress in fields such as artificial intelligence, sustainability and more.
The Selection Process
Entries are considered by TIME’s editors and evaluated on a number of criteria. The final, unranked list will include inventions sourced from applications as well as from TIME’s independent reporting. All told, TIME will recognize 200 inventions.
The full Best Inventions list will be published in fall 2023. It will appear in TIME’s print magazine and on TIME’s website (combined global audience of 100 million). It will be promoted across TIME’s social channels, including on Twitter (18 million followers), Facebook (13 million fans) and Instagram (11 million followers). There is a possibility that one or more of the Best Inventions will be featured on the cover of TIME, as well. For more information, check out our past winners, privacy policy, official rules and FAQs.
Categories
FAQs
Who is eligible to submit a Best Invention?
Any company, organization, agency, or individual involved in creating or marketing an invention that has hit—or will hit—a major milestone between Nov. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2023. Please see our official rules for more details about eligibility.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. The general application fee is $495 through June 9, 2023 (early bird price); $695 from June 10 through July 7, 2023 (standard price); and $895 from July 8 through July 21, 2023 (late price). Each application allows you to submit your invention to be considered in one category.
Can I submit my invention to be considered in more than one category?
Yes, you can select up to five (5) additional categories at an incremental cost of $125 per category. Keep in mind that inventions can only be recognized once per year. In the event that your invention receives high marks in multiple categories, TIME’s editors will determine which category is the best fit.
Can I submit more than one invention?
Yes, provided that you complete a separate application for each one.
My invention did not debut in 2023. Can I still apply?
Yes, provided that your invention has hit—or is expected to hit—a major milestone between Nov. 1, 2022, and Sept. 30, 2023. Examples of major milestones include: surpassing a sales goal, winning a major industry accolade, securing an important partnership, unveiling a working prototype, and/or announcing an expansion.
My invention is in the prototype or conceptual phase. Can I still apply?
Yes, provided that your invention can demonstrate proof of concept and is well on its way to becoming reality. If your invention will remain in the prototype or conceptual phase for the foreseeable future, please apply under the Experimental category. If you have other questions about eligibility, please contact bestinventions@time.com.
My invention has not been publicly announced. Can I still apply?
Yes, provided it will be publicly announced on or before Oct. 1, 2023. If you have specific questions about confidentiality, please contact bestinventions@time.com.
When will the list be published?
Fall 2023. Exact timing will be announced at a later date.
Where will the list be published?
The list will be published in TIME’s print magazine and on TIME’s website (combined global audience of 100 million). It will also be promoted across TIME’s social channels, including on Twitter (19.4 million followers), Facebook (13 million fans) and Instagram (12.2 million followers).
Is the list ranked?
No, the list is not ranked. All 200 inventions are designated TIME’s Best Inventions of 2023.
How will my invention be recognized by TIME?
At minimum, if we select your invention to appear on the list, it will receive a short write-up outlining what it does and why it’s groundbreaking. Select Best Inventions may also appear on the cover of TIME.
How could my invention be promoted in connection with the list?
TIME cannot make guarantees about external promotion. However, in the past, TIME’s Best Inventions list has received extensive global media coverage. You and/or your company will also have the option to license TIME’s Best Inventions content and seal for use in your own marketing and promotional materials.
What’s the application deadline?
All applications must be received on or before July 28, 2023 at 11:59:59 p.m. P.T.
When will I know if my invention has been named to the final list of Best Inventions?
We will notify applicants on a rolling basis beginning on or around October 1, 2023.
I have more questions. Who should I contact?
Please send all inquiries to bestinventions@time.com.
Please send all inquires to bestinventions@time.com.
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