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Transform education with a project you are passionate about as a
Certified Innovator

Join a global community of passionate educators who use technology to solve big challenges and advocate for impactful use of Google tools.

Describe about

Why you should become a Certified Innovator

The Google for Education Certified Innovator Program recognizes and supports top educators who are excited to grow professionally, advocate for impactful technology, and innovate to improve classrooms, schools and local communities.

Launch transformative projects

Drive transformation in education with an innovation project.

Amplify your influence

Grow leadership skills through advocacy opportunities

Accelerate personal growth

Receive tailored mentorship from talented Innovators.

Applications Open

Applications for our next Google Certified Innovator Academy

Applications for our 2024 Innovator Cohorts are now open. See below for event dates, locations, when application windows for each event. Return here to apply anytime during the application window for your preferred academy.

AcademyLanguageAcademy event datesApplication window
BrusselsDutchWed, 5 June 2024 - Fri, 7 June 2024Mon, 22 January 2024 - Fri, 1 March 2024
ChicagoEnglishWed, 17 July 2024 - Fri, 19 July 2024Thu, 1 February 2024 - Tue, 19 March 2024
São PauloPortugueseThu, 18 July 2024 - Sat, 20 July 2024Thu, 1 February 2024 - Wed, 20 March 2024
SeoulEnglishWed, 7 August 2024 - Fri, 9 August 2024Fri, 1 March 2024 - Tue, 9 April 2024
AmsterdamEnglishWed, 13 November 2024 - Fri, 15 November 2024Mon, 1 April 2024 - Tue, 16 July 2024
VirtualEnglishMon, 7 October 2024 - Mon, 25 November 2024Mon, 1 April 2024 - Sun, 9 June 2024

“The Google Innovator Academy helped me envision how to make the world a better place in support of student learning, and it gave me the skills, mindset, and supportive community to make it happen.”

Andrew Dobbie, Toronto 2016
Step-by-step

Follow these steps to become a Certified Innovator

1

Find an academy in your region

Find a three-day academy in your region that you would be able to attend

3

Identify a challenge to solve in education

Interview a few people affected by the challenge, and film a 90-second video about that challenge and why you want to solve it. Learn about the innovation process.

4

Apply before the next deadline

Make sure you submit your application before it’s due. Review the rubric.

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Community Connect

Learn more about the program from our global
community of Innovators

Use our online directory to connect with Innovators from previous cohorts

Connect

Explore frequently asked questions

View all general FAQs
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  • How do I apply to become an Innovator?

    To become an Innovator, you must apply to attend an Innovator Academy. In 2024 we will host several live Academies and one virtual Academy in various cities around the world, and in different languages. You can see the Innovator Academy event dates, locations, and application windows on the Certified Innovator page.

  • What is an Innovator project and is it required?

    All Certified Innovators will work closely with Google and other Innovators to implement, manage, and document creative education projects. We encourage Innovators to collaborate on projects, and to choose projects that inspire and impact other educators and students.

  • What exams must I take before applying to become a Certified Innovator?

    You must pass the Google Certified Educator Level 2 exam before applying to become a Certified Innovator.

  • What are the dates and locations of the Google for Education Innovator Academies?

    You can see the Innovator Academy event dates, locations, and application windows on the Certified Innovator page.

  • How do I remain an active Innovator after my first year?

    Google for Education Certified Innovators remain active in one of three ways:

    (1) continue working on a high-impact Innovator Project of their choosing

    (2) being influential advocates for using Google technologies to transform education

    (3) leading Google programs to drive innovation and transformation in their schools or school systems

Get Started

Get support

If you need assistance with the Certified Innovator Program,
reach out to us below.

Get updates on news and releases for the Certified Innovator Program