Financial Due Date - Friday October 30

Dear Lead Coaches and Mentors:

Invoices have been sent out to all teams. Any teams that have subsequently received grants have been sent updated invoices. Registration payments are due to arrive at FIRST Robotics Canada by Friday, October 30, 2026. There are four means of payment outlined on the costs and grants page of our website. It is particularly important that the due date be observed as we make a payment to HQ for all teams at once and our Kit of Parts selection process depend on teams having paid. Please contact William, william.neal@firstroboticscanada.org with any questions.

Fall Mentor Sessions - 2026

Join our 2026 Fall Mentor Sessions, a series of one-hour online gatherings.

RSVP Here

The list of topics is as follows:

Wed. Nov. 4, 2026, 8:00pm Welcome to Rookie Teams

• This meet-and-greet session allows rookie teams to network with veteran teams, create bonds of friendship and support and discuss how to navigate a team’s first season.

Wed. Nov. 18, 2026, 8:00pm Building Vibrant Communities 

• Creating a team that will thrive in an uncertain and ever-changing world requires the generation of robust, resilient and vibrant communities of students, parents, mentors and sponsors 

Wed. December 2, 2026, 8:00pm Mentor Networking

• This call is a chance for mentors around the province to connect, chat, and share ideas
• Small group breakout sessions will be formed further to topic requests leading up to the meeting

Wed. December 9, 2026, 8:00pm The Art of Mentoring

• Participants will explore how skillful mentoring can develop highly capable independent learners who are also proficient as contributors to a team.

Wed. Dec. 16, 2026, 8:00pm Preparing for the Build Season

• A final online get-together before the new season, this session allows teams to share notes on how to analyze the game and organize their resources, time and energy during the design, building and competition phases. Teams may also use this session as a preparation for the quick build sessions planned for late January.

2026-2027 Season

Event Selection - Round 2

Dear Lead Coaches and Mentors:

Round 1 of selection has finished. Round 2 will be available until Thursday October 22 at noon. Please preference one or more events for your second selection. You may view event numbers and team capacities on the Ontario District events tab on the FRC-events website.

Exhibition Event in Ottawa - November 27-28

There will be a FIRST Robotics Competition Exhibition event in Ottawa at Carleton University on November 27 to 28. Details may be found at the Carleton Capital Circuit website.

Free Skilled Trades Upskilling Workshops for Ontario

Grade 7–12 Educators

• Build confidence and practical skills through beginner-friendly workshops in machining, woodworking, fabrication, 3D printing, laser cutting, electrical work, and more.
• Workshops are available across Ontario.
• No previous experience is required.
• Funding support is available for weekday and weekend workshops, including supply teacher costs and educator participation.

www.firstroboticscanada.org/teacherupskillingworkshops

A Free Day of Fun, Friendship and Inspiration!

Meet new people, try hands-on workshops and connect with industry professionals at the Girls and Allies Youth Summit on November 21, 2026, at Centennial College Event Centre in Toronto! This FREE day includes interactive challenges, career conversations and lunch.

Open to students of all genders in Grades 9–12 on FIRST Tech Challenge or FIRST Robotics Competition teams.

Spaces are limited—register now!

Nominate an Alum

Do you know a FIRST Canada alum who has made a meaningful impact in their career, community, or beyond? We want to hear from you!

The FIRST Robotics Canada Alumni of Distinction Award celebrates individuals who:

• Participated in at least one of the FIRST programs as a student team member in Canada
• Have gone on to make meaningful contributions to society
• Demonstrate leadership, career achievements, and a lasting impact in their fields
• Embody the spirit of Gracious Professionalism and the FIRST Core Values
• 
  

Honourees will be recognized at the FIRST Robotics Canada Alumni Celebration during the FIRST Robotics Competition Ontario Provincial Championships in April.

Help us shine a spotlight on our alumni's remarkable accomplishments and inspire future generations.

Submit your nomination today!

Nominations Due October 31

Shad Scholarship

FIRST Robotics Canada students are curious, creative teens ready to take on big ideas and bold challenges. Shad Canada is now accepting applications for Summer 2027, open to a student like you.

Shad is a month-long, live-in STEAM and entrepreneurship program for Grade 10 & 11 students, held every July at post-secondary campuses across Canada. It's where students explore real-world problems, connect with like-minded peers, and build the confidence to lead in a changing world.

Why Students Love Shad:

• Hands-on design challenges that solve real-world issues
• Inspiring lectures from entrepreneurs, academics, and changemakers
• A community of 1,700+ students from across the country and an alumni network of 25,000+
• A post-secondary experience and friendships that last well beyond the program

🎓 Alumni have gone on to become Rhodes Scholars, founders, researchers, and leaders across fields from engineering to social impact.

📌 Use code FIRSTROBO when you apply so we know you're part of the Shad partner community.

💲Shad awards two full scholarships to FIRST Robotics Canada students

Program Dates: July 4 – July 30, 2027

Early Application Deadline: November 8, 2026

Final Application Deadline: January 6, 2027

👉 Apply Now

Shad 2027: Live like a post-secondary student. Think like a founder|leader|doctor|innovator|scientist