Wisconsin · National Nonprofit

FIRST Robotics Team Grants

Eligibility

Teams participating in FIRST programs — FIRST LEGO League Jr. (PreK-8), FIRST LEGO League (4-8), FIRST Tech Challenge (7-12), and FIRST Robotics Competition (9-12). Wisconsin has an active FIRST Wisconsin region with teams across the state.

Program Goals

FIRST provides grants and scholarships to help teams cover registration fees, equipment costs, and travel expenses. Grant programs from FIRST and its corporate sponsors help new teams get started and existing teams expand. FIRST Wisconsin coordinates regional support for Wisconsin teams.

Learn more at https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/team-grants

Application

Apply through firstinspires.org/robotics/team-grants. Rolling applications — teams can apply as new seasons begin. FIRST Wisconsin may have additional regional grants — check firstwi.org.

Cycle Notes

Rolling applications aligned with FIRST program seasons. FIRST Robotics Competition season runs September–April. FIRST LEGO League runs fall through winter. Check firstinspires.org for current grant windows.

Award Amount

Varies by grant program and sponsor. New team grants often cover registration fees ($500–$2,000). Larger grants for equipment and travel may reach $5,000+.

Allowable Purchases

Forward Education products that qualify for this grant:

• Coding for Good Kit — Complements FIRST robotics programs by building foundational coding skills students apply to robot programming and automation challenges.
• Smart Solar Energy Kit — Engineering and systems design thinking that reinforces the mechanical and electrical concepts students apply in FIRST competitions.
• Forward Education Learning Platform — Provides structured curriculum that helps coaches build comprehensive STEM programs around FIRST participation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a Wisconsin-specific FIRST region?
Yes. FIRST Wisconsin (firstwi.org) coordinates the state's FIRST programs and may have Wisconsin-specific grants and support for teams.

Can a new team get grant funding to cover startup costs?
Yes. FIRST has new team grant programs specifically designed to help new teams cover registration fees and initial equipment costs.

What age groups do FIRST programs serve?
FIRST LEGO League Jr. serves PreK-8, FIRST LEGO League serves grades 4-8, FIRST Tech Challenge serves grades 7-12, and FIRST Robotics Competition serves grades 9-12.

Do FIRST grants cover equipment beyond the robot kit?
Some grants cover broader program costs. Check individual grant guidelines at firstinspires.org for allowable expenses.

What companies sponsor FIRST grants in Wisconsin?
Many national FIRST sponsors (Boeing, Google, etc.) provide grants through firstinspires.org. Local Wisconsin companies may sponsor regional teams — check firstwi.org.