Grants through FIRST HQ

Grants through FIRST HQ is sponsored by FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). FIRST offers team grant opportunities, typically from specific companies and for specific programs, to help launch new FIRST teams and support existing ones. Teams must meet the specified criteria for each grant.

Grades K-8 | Ages 5-16_FIRST_ LEGO League * Resources & Documentation Grades 7-12 | Ages 12-18_FIRST_ Tech Challenge * Resources & Documentation _FIRST_ Robotics Competition Grades 9-12 | Ages 14-18_FIRST_ Robotics Competition * Resources & Documentation * How to Choose a Program * _FIRST_ K-8 Programs: 2027 & Beyond * Team Grant Opportunities * Youth Protection Program * Classroom to Career & Scholarships * Resources & Documentation * Resources & Documentation * Youth Protection Program * Resources & Documentation * Professional Development * Resources & Documentation * Resources & Documentation * Resources & Documentation DonateFind Teams & Events DonateFind Teams & Events * Resources & Documentation * Resources & Documentation * _FIRST_ Robotics Competition * Resources & Documentation * How to Choose a Program * _FIRST_ K-8 Programs: 2027 & Beyond * Team Grant Opportunities * Youth Protection Program * Classroom to Career & Scholarship Opportunities * Resources & Documentation * Resources & Documentation * Youth Protection Program * Resources & Documentation * Educators & Org Leaders * Professional Development * Resources & Documentation * Resources & Documentation * Resources & Documentation # Build _More Than Robots_ _FIRST_ is the world’s leading youth robotics community, delivering hands-on STEM learning that inspires innovation, builds confidence, and prepares kids for life.

Across the globe, students thrive in our programs — powered by mentorship, teamwork, creativity, and engineering challenges. More About _FIRST_Find a Team or Event Near You ## Explore Robotics Programs for Every Age _FIRST_® robotics programs deliver hands-on STEM education to schools, afterschool programs, and community learning spaces.

Each program offers fun, age-appropriate challenges tied to a yearly theme to help build STEM interest and adaptable skills, preparing students for STEM careers and leadership in a tech-driven world. Children can join any of our three programs based on age or grade level. Ages may vary by region.

* _FIRST_® LEGO® League Grades K-8 ### Spark Early STEM Curiosity _FIRST_® LEGO® League guides elementary and middle school students through STEM learning and exploration at an early age. Through age-appropriate divisions, students will understand STEM basics and apply their skills in an exciting competition while building learning, confidence, and teamwork skills along the way.

* _FIRST_® Tech Challenge Grades 7-12 ### Turn Ideas Into Innovation _FIRST_® Tech Challenge engages middle and high school students in robot design, coding, and competition. It is a powerful platform for developing real-world STEM skills, building confidence, and connecting students to mentorships and career exploration opportunities.

* _FIRST_® Robotics Competition Grades 9-12 ### Engineer the Future of STEM _FIRST_® Robotics Competition empowers high school students to engineer industrial-sized robots for large-scale competition. Students work side-by-side with mentors, gaining technical, teamwork, and leadership experience that supports future workforce readiness and careers in STEM fields.

### Spark Early STEM Curiosity _FIRST_® LEGO® League guides elementary and middle school students through STEM learning and exploration at an early age. Through age-appropriate divisions, students will understand STEM basics and apply their skills in an exciting competition while building learning, confidence, and teamwork skills along the way.

### Turn Ideas Into Innovation _FIRST_® Tech Challenge engages middle and high school students in robot design, coding, and competition. It is a powerful platform for developing real-world STEM skills, building confidence, and connecting students to mentorships and career exploration opportunities.

### Engineer the Future of STEM _FIRST_® Robotics Competition empowers high school students to engineer industrial-sized robots for large-scale competition. Students work side-by-side with mentors, gaining technical, teamwork, and leadership experience that supports future workforce readiness and careers in STEM fields.

## The Lasting Impact of Hands-On STEM Operating as a not-for-profit organization for more than three decades, _FIRST_ offers a suite of life-changing youth robotics programs that build skills, confidence, and resilience. Our hands-on robotics challenges — from elementary school through high school — equip students with critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world engineering skills that shape their futures.

1 million+youth participants since 1989 19 countries have a _FIRST_ presence 14%of _FIRST_ alumni pursue STEM majors by year four of college 16%of _FIRST_ students overcome challenges through program participation _FIRST_ robotics programs are more than STEM afterschool programs — and they are way _More Than Robots_®. _FIRST_ ignites confidence, curiosity, and long-term success. See how hands-on learning today builds tomorrow’s leaders.

Through real-world robotics challenges, students apply science, technology, engineering, and math. They build problem-solving skills and resilience as part of a collaborative team. _FIRST_ introduces students to mentors and STEM professionals — helping them explore and see themselves in careers in engineering, coding, and innovation while building critical life skills.

Every _FIRST_ robotics team is part of a global network of young innovators. With a culture of _Coopertition_®, students support each other as they fiercely compete and grow as individuals. Studies show _FIRST_ alumni are more likely to pursue STEM majors while they build important workplace skills, such as communications and problem solving.

Our impact is measurable and lasting. _FIRST_ believes STEM is for everyone: it builds confidence and opens doors. We designed our robotics program to be welcoming, inspiring, and empowering across all ages and learning needs.

Dedicated mentors and coaches help students learn, lead, and thrive. Their support brings _FIRST_ robotics programs to life and has a lifelong impact on every participant. 2026-2027 ROBOTICS SEASON ## Inspired by nature.

Powered by innovation. Nothing on Earth thrives alone. With STEM as their tool and nature as their inspiration, today's boldest innovators are finding new ways to strengthen the connections that protect our shared home.

Welcome to our **biodiversity-themed robotics season, Learn More & Get Involved ## Be Part of What’s Next for _FIRST_ K-8 Programs _FIRST_ is developing the next generation of K-8 programs, launching in 2027. These new offerings will build upon everything _FIRST_ values while introducing new ways to engage our youngest students in hands-on, real-world STEM learning.

Learn More & Get Involved ## Get Inspired with News & Updates from _FIRST_ Check out a recent newsletter We’d like to share _FIRST_ news and how you can support our mission. - [x] Send me the biweekly _FIRST_ newsletter* ## Voices of the _FIRST_ Community When you volunteer, you walk into an event and its another family that's there. Even if it's your first event, you'll quickly become part of that family.

These are the people that are my friends now. _FIRST_ Volunteer for 14 Years When I saw how my friends were getting involved with _FIRST_, I got really interested. Everyone's willing to be kind to each other, willing to help you out.

I said, "I want to be one of them." Above all, I think _FIRST_ allows you to be yourself. It encourages positive growth and helps you get to that next step you want to achieve in life.

Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I'd be working at Nike World Headquarters. [Being on a _FIRST_ team has] taught me critical thinking, how to take criticism, and how to be open to new ideas _FIRST_ Participant, Team Belize Volunteering at _FIRST_ is exciting and exhilarating and a way to give back to my community in a way that makes me feel full.

_FIRST_ Mentor & Volunteer for 13 Years When you volunteer, you walk into an event and its another family that's there. Even if it's your first event, you'll quickly become part of that family. These are the people that are my friends now.

_FIRST_ Volunteer for 14 Years When I saw how my friends were getting involved with _FIRST_, I got really interested. Everyone's willing to be kind to each other, willing to help you out. I said, "I want to be one of them."

Above all, I think _FIRST_ allows you to be yourself. It encourages positive growth and helps you get to that next step you want to achieve in life. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I'd be working at Nike World Headquarters.

[Being on a _FIRST_ team has] taught me critical thinking, how to take criticism, and how to be open to new ideas _FIRST_ Participant, Team Belize Volunteering at _FIRST_ is exciting and exhilarating and a way to give back to my community in a way that makes me feel full. _FIRST_ Mentor & Volunteer for 13 Years When you volunteer, you walk into an event and its another family that's there.

Even if it's your first event, you'll quickly become part of that family. These are the people that are my friends now. _FIRST_ Volunteer for 14 Years ## A Global Network, United by STEM Every student, parent, volunteer, educator, and supporter is part of something bigger at _FIRST_.

Explore how our global community fuels innovation, collaboration, and impact. _FIRST_ volunteers make STEM come to life — from setting up events to cheering on teams. No experience is required, just a passion for helping students succeed.

* Support events in your local area * Inspire students through hands-on support * Volunteer roles for every interest and schedule Mentors and coaches help students build technical skills and resiliency — shaping their confidence, leadership, and love for learning.

* Help students design, code, and collaborate * Lead with empathy and expertise * No STEM background required to make an impact Parents empower _FIRST_ teams by offering encouragement, pitching in at events, or even starting teams. Their involvement makes all the difference.

* Volunteer or start a team in your community How to Register Your Youth From individual donors to global sponsors, our supporters fund access to high-quality STEM programs that change lives and futures.

* Fund robotics teams or events * Provide in-kind donations or mentorship * Align your brand with innovation and inclusion Educators bring _FIRST_ into schools and classrooms — blending STEM education with teamwork, creativity, and real-world application.

* Classroom-ready implementation options * Support for afterschool STEM programs * Professional development and peer collaboration Bring _FIRST_ to Your School _FIRST_ alumni carry their STEM skills into college, careers, and communities, often returning as mentors, donors, and advocates.

* Join the global alumni network * Share your story and inspire others * Discover new ways to stay involved _FIRST_ volunteers make STEM come to life — from setting up events to cheering on teams. No experience is required, just a passion for helping students succeed.

* Support events in your local area * Inspire students through hands-on support * Volunteer roles for every interest and schedule Mentors and coaches help students build technical skills and resiliency — shaping their confidence, leadership, and love for learning.

* Help students design, code, and collaborate * Lead with empathy and expertise * No STEM background required to make an impact Parents empower _FIRST_ teams by offering encouragement, pitching in at events, or even starting teams. Their involvement makes all the difference.

* Volunteer or start a team in your community How to Register Your Youth From individual donors to global sponsors, our supporters fund access to high-quality STEM programs that change lives and futures.

* Fund robotics teams or events * Provide in-kind donations or mentorship * Align your brand with innovation and inclusion Educators bring _FIRST_ into schools and classrooms — blending STEM education with teamwork, creativity, and real-world application.

* Classroom-ready implementation options * Support for afterschool STEM programs * Professional development and peer collaboration Bring _FIRST_ to Your School _FIRST_ alumni carry their STEM skills into college, careers, and communities, often returning as mentors, donors, and advocates.

* Join the global alumni network * Share your story and inspire others * Discover new ways to stay involved ## Where STEM Learning Comes Alive From local showcases to world-stage championships, _FIRST_ events turn STEM activities into high-energy robotics competitions. Students celebrate their hard work, have fun, form connections, and boost problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration skills in real time.

## Creating Safe Spaces for STEM Learning _FIRST_ is dedicated to creating safe, welcoming, and inspiring spaces where all students can thrive. Our Youth Protection Program equips mentors, coaches, event volunteers, and other supporters to deliver robotics programs with care, accountability, and respect for every student.

## Voices From the Robotics Community ## Supported by _FIRST_ Strategic Partners Leading companies across global industries trust _FIRST_. Our sponsors recognize the critical role of _FIRST_ robotics programs in building interest in STEM and fortifying their talent pipelines with _FIRST_ alumni equipped with adaptable skills. Strategic Partners significantly invest in FIRST to help expand our reach and overall impact.

## Find the Right Robotics Program _FIRST_ offers hands-on STEM afterschool programs for students of all ages and experience levels. If you’re looking to find a team or launch a new one, we can help you find the best fit for your school, community, or family.

* _FIRST_ Robotics Competition * How to Choose a Program * Team Grant Opportunities * Youth Protection Program * Classroom to Career + Scholarships * Educators & Org Leaders * Annual Report & Financials * Create Dashboard Account * _FIRST_ Dashboard Login _FIRST_® is a robotics community that prepares young people for the future through a suite of welcoming, team-based youth robotics programs.

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com/user/FIRSTWorldTube) Get updates from _FIRST_ through the bi-weekly _FIRST_ newsletter. We’d like to share _FIRST_ news and how you can support our mission. - [x] Send me the biweekly _FIRST_ newsletter* * Payment Terms & Refund Policy