Stripe has been appointed as title sponsor of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (YSTE), replacing long-time sponsor and organiser BT.

The payments group has agreed a five-year deal to sponsor the well-loved STEM exhibition for second-level students.

Stripe co-founders Patrick and John Collison are previous winners at Young Scientist as students at Castletroy College in Limerick.

In 2005, then-16-year-old Patrick won the overall competition for developing a new programming language, while 14-year-old John won the Behavioural Sciences category.

“YSTE is a special institution for me and John. It amplified our curiosity and reinforced our confidence at a critical juncture. We’re honoured that Stripe has been selected to help preserve it for generations to come," said Patrick Collison.

The organisers said that Stripe had been chosen as the new sponsor following a competitive selection process "for its clear vision for YSTE, its multi-year sponsorship commitment, and its ability to support the large volunteer force required for the delivery of an exhibition and event of this scale."

Founded by Dr Tony Scott and Rev Dr Tom Burke in 1965, the exhibition is a staple in the academic, scientific and technological calendar every year, and attracts on average over 40,000 visitors, making it one of the biggest events of its kind both in Europe and worldwide.

The winners of the Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition advance to participate in prestigious international events such as the European Union Contest for Young Scientists.

“We are delighted to welcome Stripe as a partner in shaping the next chapter of our exhibition. Their support ensures we can continue to inspire the next generation of scientists, technologists, engineers, and innovators," said Dr Scott.

"It’s vital that we not only sustain the strong reputation and level of interest in the exhibition year-on-year, but continue to evolve and engage young, inquiring minds in new and meaningful ways for years to come.”

“I would like to congratulate Stripe on their selection as the new title sponsor of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition.

"What really struck the Board was the level of commitment and passion Stripe displayed in wanting to honour the legacy and vision that Dr Tony Scott and Rev Dr Tom Burke created more than sixty years ago," said Professor Pat Guiry, chairperson of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition Board.

BT announced in February that it was ending its sponsorship of the event after 25 years as the business scales back its presence in Ireland.

"Collaborating with BT Ireland has been a true privilege for our Board and their dedication in shaping the exhibition into what it is today has been nothing short of inspiring," said Prof Guiry.

"While they leave a remarkable legacy, we are confident that Stripe will be exceptional partners in the years ahead— not only given Stripe’s global reputation as a leader in tech innovation, but also given its strong connection to YSTE through Patrick and John Collison, who are both past participants in the competition, with Patrick taking home the overall top prize in 2005.”

Commenting on the announcement, Minister for Education Helen McEntee said: “The Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition has grown to become one of the most successful and respected events focused on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in Europe, if not the world. 

"The incredible legacy it has left to date is immeasurable, and I have no doubt it will continue to inspire and promote STEM and innovation for many more years to come.”

“I would like to thank BT Ireland for delivering an exhibition of such a high standard for over 25 years.

"We look forward to continuing our strategic partnership with the YTSE and working with Stripe as they continue to empower students to embrace new ideas, foster curiosity and encourage a love of learning.” 

Eileen O'Mara, chief revenue officer at Stripe, said: “It’s very rare to find a youth science event that captures the imagination of a whole country.

"YSTE propels many students into a lifelong career in STEM, and strengthens Ireland’s science and technology ecosystem.

"We are delighted to be chosen as title sponsors of the exhibition and look forward to working with the YSTE team and Board to continue inspiring young people with the power of science.”

The 2026 Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition takes place from 7-10 January and is open for submissions from secondary school students aged 12-19. Deadlines for submissions will close on 26 September.

Photo: Patrick Collison win the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition in 2005. (Pic: Graham Hughes/RollingNews.ie)