FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) teaches young people science, engineering and technology skills while instilling the confidence to become tomorrow’s innovators. We support their mentor-based programs that offer exciting, team-based challenges where students research, design, build and more.
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FIRST®
36,000 students
directly reached through Dow funding
26 communities
worldwide where we partner with FIRST
Inspiring innovation in new generations
Dow and FIRST have been strategic allies since 2014. Our values and ambition align with the hands-on experiences youth gain from FIRST and the program’s focus on inclusion. Dow funding allows FIRST to directly reach 36,000 students in 26 Dow communities.
We are currently accepting grant applications for the 2025 season from FIRST teams in the U.S. and Canada.
Engage young people in hands-on programs
Students are challenged and inspired with programs that teach, mentor and build confidence and camaraderie.
Instill the confidence to become innovators
Students learn essential life skills like clear communication, conflict resolution and problem solving.
Promote inclusion
The FIRST community embodies belonging—with the best teams embracing diverse experiences.
Challenges and competitions
Explore the programs we support that combine the rigors STEM learning with the fun and excitement of traditional sports—plus the inspiration that comes from community through programs that have a proven impact on learning, interest, and skill-building inside and outside of the classroom.
The hardest fun you’ll have
The Ultimate Sport for the Mind™, FIRST® Robotics Competition combines the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology. It’s as close to real engineering as a high schooler can get.
Code.
Design.
Compete.
FIRST® Tech Challenge participants learn to think like engineers as they design, build and program robots that compete in an alliance format. The event also cultivates and rewards life skills like community outreach.
Building blocks for imagination
FIRST® LEGO® League engages young students in engineering via the familiar interlocking blocks. Teams build LEGO-based robots, get guidance from coaches and learn to make positive contributions to society.
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