Where Bright Ideas Meet Big Opportunities

Where Bright Ideas Meet Big Opportunities

WELCOME TO THE 2026 NAPE CASE COMPETITION

About the NAPE Case Competition

The NAPE Case Competition is a dynamic event designed to challenge participants to develop innovative solutions for the energy industry. Teams from universities, startups, and other organizations are invited to compete, showcase their ideas, and gain hands-on experience in real-world energy problem-solving.

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  • Over 12,000 attendees and about 600 exhibits at NAPE

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  • 80% of NAPE attendees report finding significant value and attend annually

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  • Over 450 companies exhibited at NAPE Summit

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Mission & Purpose

The NAPE/SMU Energy Innovation Case Competition transforms the NAPE Summit into a launchpad for bold ideas. It challenges participants to tackle real-world energy problems, craft creative data-driven solutions, and present strategies that blend technical insight with financial expertise. More than a contest, it’s a high-visibility platform where students connect with industry leaders, gain invaluable feedback, and help bridge the gap between academia and the rapidly evolving energy marketplace.

The 2026 NAPE Summit will be held February 18–20 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. As part of the Summit, the NAPE / SMU Energy Innovation Case Competition will begin with an offline first round to be submitted by November 21. Those advancing will attend an in-person second round on Wednesday, February 18, with presentation rounds and evaluation sessions scheduled throughout the day.