Interested in starting a new _FIRST_ Tech Challenge team?
Once you've read [the overview of the program](../overview.md), here's a guide on getting started.

>>> Understand the Cost
_FIRST_ Tech Challenge teams have start-up and seasonal costs.
We've prepared an example team budget to help you understand the cost to participate during the first and subsequent seasons.

[!ref](team-budget.md)

>>> Register your Team
Teams register with _FIRST_ each season.

!!!
A new registration payment experience is coming mid-July 2026.
Payments cannot be completed until then.
More information about the registration process will be available soon.
!!!

[!ref target="blank" text="Learn More About Registration"](https://www.firstinspires.org/programs/ftc/get-started)

>>> Purchase Materials
Purchase required electronics and an optional kit of parts.

!!!
A new _FIRST_ storefront, with updated options and pricing for materials, will be available starting mid-July 2026.
More information about the required electronics will be available then.
!!!

Several manufacturers offer season-specific kits to help teams get started:

* [AndyMark](https://andymark.com/pages/2026-2027-robits-starterbot-base)
* [goBILDA](https://www.gobilda.com/ftc-starter-kit-2026-2027-season/)
* [REV Robotics](https://www.revrobotics.com/rev-45-3529/)
* [Studica](https://www.studica.com/ftc-starter-kit-2025-2026-season-decode)

>>> Attend or Watch Kickoff
Each season begins with a kickoff event.
Here in Florida, we host a live broadcast on the day of the event with multiple in-person gatherings around the state.
Check the [event listing](https://flfirst.org/events) for one near you.

If you missed kickoff, you can watch the broadcast [on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@FIRSTinFlorida/streams).

>>> Connect with your League
Once you complete registration, you'll receive an introductory email.
This email will introduce you to your local league.
Leagues are the best source of local mentorship and information about events in your area.

>>> Prepare for Events
Throughout the season, teams design, build, and iterate on their robot.
Most teams structure their progress around their local league's event schedule.

Understand the different event types, how to prepare for an event, and when they are:

[!ref](event-types.md)

[!ref](event-checklist.md)

[!ref target="blank" text="Event Schedule"](https://flfirst.org/events)

>>>