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Sandbox

The Sandbox is our creative innovation hub—a space for students of all levels to experiment and apply STEM and skills to projects that make a difference. Participants can prototype apps, models, or systems inspired by ecology and sustainability, and see their work showcased across Bird2Branch’s global network.

Sandbox challenge

Each month, we launch a Sandbox challenge, inviting our community to tackle new themes. Students submit their research and designs, receive feedback from mentors, and collaborate with peers across disciplines. Outstanding projects are featured in our publication, where young creators share reflections and technical write-ups that inspire thousands worldwide.

Prizes for participating and winning are generously awarded to drive innovation, including:

- Website features
- Certificates
- Digital badges
- Mentorship opportunities
- Professional development
- Invited to exclusive events
- Webinar features
- Publication opportunity
- Scholarships & tech prizes
- Other premium perks

Knowledge hub

Curated, research-based articles and tutorials are created by our staff for each challenge and posted on this page so that no beginner, amateur, or curious mind is left alone. Our staff creates monthly prompts, highlights top submissions, and manages proper expertise for judging and spotlight selection.

Interested in joining our staff to create professional resources for us and the community? Fill out the interest form →

November challenge

Challenge prompt, submission instructions, prizes, and knowledge hub resources coming soon!

Legacy materials

Bird2Branch's Sandbox previously hosted regularly updated resource guides and informative blogs, which served as helpful for career exploration and securing research opportunities.

Our posts served as a platform to students, researchers, and professionals for sharing information, current events, commentary, and tips in regards to the connection of birds and STEM, fine arts, and the human experience. Though the resource guides and blogs have been discontinued, existing materials remain on this page as helpful references to interested students.

All opinionated pieces are reflective of the writers' attitudes and not the organization as a whole, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

🧭 Resource guides

01. Exploring STEAM via birds with valuable opportunities and resources →

An introduction to various fields in STEM and the arts, and how they relate to ornithology. Dive deep into the world of birds and pursue what piques your interest! Each section includes analysis and engaging aspects of what you could explore, and a list of helpful resources, competitions, and valuable opportunities that could be once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Feel free to skim through certain sections you are certain you have no interest in, but trying things out by simply reading this comprehensive guide would be strongly advised.

02. Significance of avian conservation and how you can impact the world with Bird2Branch →

In this resource guide, we will go in-depth on the significance of avian conservation, why current efforts aren't enough, and what you can do for the cause via getting involved in Bird2Branch and seeking your own opportunities. This guide also cites to many sources and research about avian conservation that you can use to kickstart your own project, and links to dozens of contests and university courses to build expertise about environmental impacts and its overlap with many fields.