Inspired by nature. Powered by innovation.
Using a winning formula of inspiration, hands-on learning, team-based problem solving, mentorship, and celebration, FIRST® helps kids build their futures.
More Than Robots®, we are a life-changing global community of mentors, educators, volunteers, sponsors, parents, and alumni who are dedicated to helping all young people develop the skills, confidence, and resilience to succeed.
Exciting, hands-on FIRST programs have a proven and lasting impact on STEM learning and interest in students. FIRST participants work as teams in creative learning environments to solve an annual, themed robotics challenge.
Engineer a thriving planet with FIRST®
Nothing on Earth thrives alone. Every gene, species, and ecosystem is part of a rich web of biological diversity that powers clean air, fresh water, and food.
With STEM as their tool and nature as inspiration, today’s boldest innovators are finding new ways to strengthen the connections that protect our shared home.
Building. Problem solving. Growing stronger through teamwork.
Welcome to our 2026-2027 biodiversity-themed robotics season, FIRST® CANOPY™.
FIRST® Tech Challenge (ages 12-18 / grades 7-12) students work together with their mentors to design and build robots to compete in a dynamic and exciting challenge released every September.
Teams program classroom-scale robots to follow autonomous commands before student drivers take control in two-on-two matches. On and off the field, students develop STEM skills, engage in community outreach, practice engineering innovation, and build confidence to help them succeed.
Starting September 12, 2026, FIRST Tech Challenge teams will amplify the excitement and energy found within the natural world during a new challenge, BIOBUZZ™ presented by RTX.
