Robotics League Participation Grants

The Robotics League Participation Grants program is administered by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to support student engagement in robotics competitions and STEM learning activities. This initiative is designed to expand access to hands-on engineering and technology experiences for students in grades 6 through 12 by reducing financial barriers associated with participation in organized robotics leagues. The program aligns with broader educational goals of fostering interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while encouraging teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving among youth participants. The grant provides funding of up to 6000 dollars per eligible team to cover essential costs associated with robotics competitions. Allowable expenses include required registration fees, competition kits, and necessary supplies used in preparing for and participating in robotics events. In addition, the program permits reimbursement for travel expenses for team members and their mentor, as well as a stipend for the mentor supporting the team. All supported competitions must be organized by nonprofit entities recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and must involve designing and operating robots as part of the competition framework. A key requirement of the program is the matching funds provision. Applicants must secure matching funds equal to the amount requested in the grant application at the time of submission. These matching funds must be used for eligible expenses and documented accordingly. In-kind contributions are not permitted for the match, and all expenditures must be verifiable through receipts and financial records. The total expenditures, including both grant and matching funds, must equal at least twice the requested reimbursement amount. Eligibility for the program includes teams composed of students in grades 6 through 12 from public school districts, charter schools authorized under specific Wisconsin statutes, private schools, and home-based private education programs. Each team must have at least one mentor and may submit only one application per eligible team. The program ensures that all participants are actively engaged in qualifying robotics competitions, whether in-person or virtual, and requires demonstration of a good faith effort to compete even if unforeseen circumstances prevent participation. The application process is conducted online and requires submission through an electronic portal. Applicants receive confirmation upon submission and must designate an administrator to verify eligibility and approve the application. Following participation in competitions, awardees must complete a detailed expense reporting process, including submission of receipts, invoices, and a ledger documenting both grant-funded and matching expenditures. This documentation is required to receive reimbursement. For the 2025 to 2026 cycle, the grant period runs from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, and the application deadline was October 1, 2025. Given the annual nature of the program, future funding cycles are anticipated. The program includes structured post-award reporting requirements and emphasizes financial accountability and compliance with funding guidelines. While specific evaluation criteria are not detailed, compliance with eligibility, documentation, and matching requirements is essential for successful reimbursement.

Ensure matching funds are secured and documented prior to submission; maintain detailed receipts and financial records; confirm competition eligibility under 501(c)(3) requirements