FIRST Tech Challenge helps students learn computer science, engineering, manufacturing, teamwork, problem solving, communications skills and more.

FIRST Tech Challenge in Minnesota (MN FTC) is part of an international robotics program that includes more than 6,700 teams globally. High Tech Kids, in partnership with FIRST, has been bringing FIRST Tech Challenge to Minnesota since 2013. Teams do not need to be formed only by schools. They can be formed by Homeschool associations, 4 H groups, scouts, just a group of friends, etc. Teams of three to fifteen students per team, in grades 7-12, collaborate to build and program robots that compete on a 12’ by 12’ field. Each year the competition is designed to challenge students to think critically and expand their knowledge of the engineering process.

FIRST and High Tech Kids are offering limited grant opportunities to rookie and veteran teams. Details about the grants can be found by clicking the First Tech Challenge in Minnesota link above, then click on the How Much Does it Cost? tab, scroll to bottom until you reach the Team Scholarships and Grants. There you will find the links for a couple different grant opportunities. https://hightechkids.org/

As a member of the SWWC, there is a LYFT Pathway grant available. To sign up for the FTC LYFT grant by using this link: FTC LYFT grant application

LYFT Pathways Grant Opportunity for First Tech Challenge – 2022-23
There is a small amount of grant funds available to start or add a NEW team and/or help existing teams. Once you have applied, a contract will be issued to your school that indicates the stipend amount you will receive when completing the challenge.

MN FTC Event Registration Wave 1 Opened Friday, October 7, 2022. See information below.
We look forward to helping new and existing teams during the 2022-23 school year.  If you have questions related to the FIRST or High Tech Kids Grants, materials, schedule, and actual competition, please direct those to Colin Gardner-Springer at colin@hightechkids.org. LYFT grant related questions can be directed to Andrea.Anderson@swwc.org.