The FCA Foundation awarded FIRST robotics programs more than $400,000 this year, including support for 2018 FIRST Championship – Detroit.

Ahead of the Jan. 6 kickoff of the 2018 FIRST Robotics season, the FCA Foundation, the charitable arm of North American automaker FCA US LLC, has announced more than $228,000 in grants to 51 Michigan-based FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) teams. The grants ($4,475 per team) will help offset the costs (such as registration fees, parts and materials and team apparel) associated with participating in the 2018 FIRST POWER UP challenge.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), is an international, K-12 not-for-profit organization founded to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology.

“We are proud to partner with an organization that is committed to inspiring the next generation of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) professionals,” said Phil Jansen, head of product development, FCA – North America. “The experience that students gain through their participation in FIRST programs is invaluable in preparing them for STEM-based careers.”

This year alone, the FCA Foundation has awarded more than $400,000 to student robotics programs, including grants for Michigan-based FIRST Tech Challenge and FIRST LEGO League teams, First in Michigan and 2018 FIRST Championship – Detroit (April 25-28).

In addition, more than 80 FCA US employees will guide FRC teams through the competition season as volunteer team mentors and coaches.