About

Are inventors born or made?

Find out how innovative people become inventors. Our TV special, airing on PBS stations and streaming in the PBS app, explores the workshops and laboratories of some of the most ingenious minds in the fields of materials, software, hardware, biotech, and agriculture.

Explore this site to dive deeper into what it takes to achieve success in entrepreneurship and invention.

A commitment to innovation.

At the core of the Pathways to Invention project, a pioneering collaboration between Maaia Mark Productions and the Lemelson-MIT Program, lies a shared vision to illuminate and nurture the journey of today’s innovators and tomorrow’s entrepreneurs. This initiative stands as a beacon of inspiration, education, and empowerment, aiming to bridge the gap between potential and achievement in the realms of invention and innovation.

Driven by the belief that invention is the cornerstone of human progress, our mission is to showcase the diverse pathways inventors traverse in bringing their transformative ideas to life. Through the lens of the “Pathways to Invention” documentary and its accompanying educational resources, we endeavor to celebrate the often unsung heroes of our time — those who dare to dream and do, creating solutions that shape our world.

Recognizing the critical need for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of invention, our efforts are particularly focused on amplifying the voices of underrepresented innovators.

By highlighting their contributions and challenges, we aim to dismantle barriers and cultivate a more inclusive environment where every aspiring inventor can see themselves reflected in the stories of success and perseverance.

Inspired by the legacy of Jerome Lemelson and his commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, the Pathways to Invention project is committed to expanding opportunities for all individuals to engage with and excel in invention. Through the power of storytelling, educational programming, and community engagement, we strive to spark curiosity, encourage problem-solving, and equip a new generation of inventors and entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed.

Together, Lemelson-MIT and Maaia Mark Productions are dedicated to nurturing a society where invention is accessible to everyone, and where diverse perspectives drive the innovation that leads us into a brighter, more equitable future

FAQs

How can I watch the program outside of the U.S.?

The one-hour PATHWAYS TO INVENTION TV special is presently only available to viewers in the U.S. If you are interested in viewing the film internationally, please contact Maaia Mark Productions.

I’m a teacher, may I use PATHWAYS TO INVENTION as part of my classroom curriculum?

Yes. The program was developed with educators, parents and students in mind. You may also find these additional resources from Lemelson-MIT useful.

I am a young inventor and I am interested in assistance with bringing my inventions to fruition.

If you are an inventor looking for support to bring your inventions to life, we encourage you to explore the Invention And Patent Resources section of the Lemelson-MIT website. LMIT is dedicated to empowering a diverse and inclusive generation of inventors and innovators who can turn their ideas into reality. LMIT offers resources, grants, and guidance that might be exactly what you need to move your project forward.

How can I contact one of the inventors featured in the program?

While we cannot guarantee a personal response from any of the inventors, we are more than happy to facilitate by passing along your message sent through this contact form.

I have an idea for a future TV program. How can I contact the producers?

Maaia Mark Productions is always on the lookout for fresh and exciting ideas that resonate with our audience. If you have a concept for a TV program that you believe aligns with our values and interests, we’d love to hear about it. Contact us!

Executive Producers

“Pathways to Invention” is produced by Maaia Mark Productions in association with Lemelson-MIT and is distributed in the United States by American Public Television.