As jobs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers increase, our nation is working for ways to motivate and inspire students to become interested in pursuing these careers. For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) uses robots participating in sports-related competitions as an exciting way to introduce K-12 students to the skills necessary to be successful in STEM fields. Research has shown that participation in FIRST programs increases students’ confidence in their ability to work with technology and their likelihood to attend college and major in a STEM field. This paper outlines the processes created for and lessons learned from starting a FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) community-based team. The most important lesson learned is that running an FRC team is equivalent to running a small business. Therefore, this paper also provides the business canvas model for a viable nonprofit that will provide services to support the creation and sustainability of FIRST teams.

Recommended Citation: Capezza J., Reinicke B., Guinn C., Vetter R., (2015). Robots and Competition: Developing a Nonprofit to Support and Sustain Fun Stem Education. UNCW MS CSIS Proceedings. V. 9 , N. 12 .