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Introduction

Through support from the CT Manufacturing Innovation Fund (MIF) and in partnership with NE FIRST and CTEEA, the ReadyCT Robotics Curriculum Integration Program will provide successful Connecticut public school applicants with the funding and individualized support needed to launch sustainable robotics programs in the classroom. This initiative targets schools where STEM education has been hindered due to inconsistent funding or teacher turnover. ReadyCT will provide up to $15,000 in funding to as many as eight (8) awardees, expanding student access to robotics education. We are currently accepting applications from public schools in Connecticut interested in either embedding robotics into existing core curricula or launching new robotics electives during the 2026-2027 academic year. Applicants are required to implement one of the following program options; however, a final selection is not required prior to submitting your application. For a detailed breakdown of these offerings, please refer to our Comparison Document.

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) for grades 7–12
VEX IQ for grades 5–8
VEX V5 for grades 7–12

Following the initial application review, selected applicants will be invited to a technical assistance meeting to discuss appropriate programming options in greater detail. Upon the successful conclusion of this meeting, schools will be invited to complete and submit a formal budget proposal for final approval. The funding is awarded for one year, beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2027, and may be applied towards robotics kits, professional development, teacher stipends, and supplies related to implementing robotics education. To ensure program success, successful applicants will receive on-site, in-person coaching and instructional support throughout the pilot year. More information about this opportunity can be found in the FAQ document.

For questions, email Erin McCarthy, K-12 Robotics Education Specialist, at

erin.mccarthy@readyct.org

Submission Deadline: Wednesday, May 27, 2026, by 11:59 PM

Submitting Organization

What is the name of the school requesting funding?

Is the school located in Connecticut?

At this time, our funding is restricted to Connecticut-based schools. If your school is located elsewhere, you will be unable to submit this form. If you accidentally selected "No" when asked if your school is based in Connecticut, you may change your selection above to continue.

In which district is the school located?

Does the school serve public school students in an Alliance District?

Click HERE for a list of CT Alliance School Districts.

Designated Contact

Applicants must provide a point of contact for communications about this application, including a funding decision. The point of contact must be at least 18 years old.

Contact First Name

Contact Last Name

Contact Email Address

Contact Phone Number

Contact Job Title

Submission Details

Abstract: Provide an overview of the proposed program. Detail the fit within your existing schedule. Define whether this initiative functions as a standalone elective, an integrated module within a core course, or an expansion of a career and technical education (CTE) pathway. Identify the grade levels and number of students who will participate. Finally, state whether your school has a specific program in mind or is seeking guidance from ReadyCT to identify the framework that best fits your current resources.

Impact and Demographics: Describe the student population this program will serve. Include specific data on school demographics, grade levels, and the estimated number of participating students. Explain how this initiative addresses gaps in your current STEM offerings. How will this improve STEM engagement for underrepresented students in your district?

Current Capacity and Inventory: Describe your school’s readiness to host a robotics class. Audit the intended classroom space and detail the available hardware, specifying the type and quantity of computers. Evaluate the physical workspace, considering the desk types, equipment storage, and power access. Identify any anticipated needs beyond the robot kits, such as furniture, tools, or organizational supplies.

Instructional Support: Identify the lead instructor and summarize their experience with robotics. Identify the internal network available to ensure program quality. List collaborators, mentors, or administrators who will support the program. Detail the dedicated planning time or professional development hours the school has committed to the program.

Commitment and Sustainability: Describe plans to sustain the program beyond the grant period. Evaluate obstacles such as scheduling, budget restraints for part replacement, or IT infrastructure hurdles. Describe the school’s plan to maintain equipment and continue instruction after the initial one-year grant period concludes. Identify the specific staff role or department responsible for program oversight and equipment maintenance in subsequent years.

Expectations

If your application is funded, you will be provided with a grant agreement for your review and signature that will include (but not be limited to) the following terms:

Provide quarterly program and financial updates to ReadyCT using the provided templates.
Commit to supporting and maintaining the robotics program for a minimum of two years following the initial grant program.
Grant ReadyCT access to the classroom for on-site coaching and program observation.
Ensure the lead instructor attends all scheduled project meetings, whether held in-person or virtually.
Guarantee institutional support to maintain the program in the event of teacher turnover or staff transitions.
Submit all equipment and material purchases for ReadyCT approval to ensure alignment with grant guidelines.
Host a school-based robotics event to demonstrate students' work and program impact.

Acknowledgment of Expectations

By checking this box, I agree to the expectations written above.

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