MN FTC Qualifier Event Registration timelines: click here to register Qualifier Play

  $225 each qualifier

Wave 1 will be open October 6-11

Wave 2 will be open October 13-18

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 grant opportunities to rookie and veteran teams. Details about the grants can be found by clicking the High Tech kids overview link below, click the Grant and Awards button on the right. There you will find grant opportunities. All rookie teams should apply for the FIRST rookie grant. https://hightechkids.org/ftc-overview/

LYFT Pathways Grant Opportunity for First Tech Challenge – 2023-24

As a member of the SWWC, there is a LYFT Pathway grant available. To sign up for the FTC LYFT grant use this link: FTC LYFT Grant Application  

We are focused on increasing the number of teams in our regions. There is a small amount of grant funds available to start or add a NEW team. Priority will be given to those schools starting or adding a NEW team. However, if there is funding available, there is a chance to help existing teams as well. Please fill out the simple LYFT Grant Application above. Payment will be released once the challenge is completed. Schools will then send SWWC an invoice submitting proof of participation in a qualifier event using registration verification to the FTC Qualifier or FIRST registration fee receipt.

We look forward to helping new and existing teams during the 2023-24 school year.  If you have questions related to the FIRST or High Tech Kids Grants, materials, schedule, and physical competition, please direct those to Norm Tiedemann norm@hightechkids.org, Kris Simonson kris@hightechkids.org or Vicki Coaty vicki@hightechkids.org. LYFT grant related questions can be directed to Andrea.Anderson@swwc.org.