New England First
New England First supports young Rhode Islanders through team-based robotics and coding projects that build STEM skills, introduce related careers, and help prepare them for college and work.
Funder: Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training
Due Dates: Rolling through December 2026 (Youth enrollment, until spots fill)
Funding Amounts: $2.8 million invested in Real Skills for Youth partnerships for 2026; no individual award amount stated for this program
Summary: Team-based robotics and coding projects help young people build STEM skills and explore related careers.
Key Information: This is a youth participation opportunity for ages 12–24, not a direct grant application to New England First.
Description
New England First’s Rhode Island Region offers team-based robotics and coding projects through Real Skills for Youth, a PrepareRI initiative supported by the Governor’s Workforce Board at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training. The program serves young people statewide, introducing them to robotics, engineering, and related STEM careers through hands-on collaboration.
Participants develop problem-solving, teamwork, and critical-thinking skills, connect with industry professionals, and collaborate and compete as part of a robotics team. They receive a certificate of completion and may have an opportunity to compete in a statewide robotics competition. The broader Real Skills for Youth initiative aims to prepare young Rhode Islanders for college and careers through career exposure and work-based learning.
