FIRST®

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.

FIRST Robotics students

53,000 students

directly reached through Dow funding

29 communities

worldwide where we partner with FIRST

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.

a robot in competition

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.

a robot in competition

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. 

a LEGO robot in competition

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.

A decade of Impact with Dow Canada

Dow-sponsored Team in Egypt

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