The FIRST Core Values emphasize friendly sportsmanship, respect for the contributions of others, teamwork, learning, and community involvement and are part of our commitment to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of unity

During this biodiversity-inspired season, teams use STEM and collaboration skills to explore how innovation can support biodiversity, strengthen communities, and help build a healthier, more connected planet.

During the BIOGLOW season, teams were challenged to identify and research a problem that puts biodiversity at risk and design an innovative solution that can help. At tournaments, judges evaluate how the team used the engineering design process and Core Values in their work.

Identify a Problem & Research

• Select a Topic: Explore the season theme—threats to biodiversity—a local ecosystem problem that interests your team.

• Write a Problem Statement: Clearly define what the problem is, why it matters, who it affects, and why current conditions cause it.

• Research Existing Solutions: Use reliable sources (books, articles, expert interviews) to understand what current solutions exist, what works, and what gaps remain.

• Design a Solution

• Brainstorm ways to solve the problem—either by creating a brand-new solution or improving/combining existing technologies].

• Choose the best idea as a team and outline a plan to develop it..

• Create a Prototype:

• Build a physical prototype model or create a detailed drawing/diagram representing your solution. (Note: The prototype does not need to be fully functional, but it must clearly illustrate how your solution would work in practice.

• Iterate & Improve

• Share your prototype with community members, users, or field experts to collect constructive feedback].

• Document the specific improvements and design changes you made based on their feedback.

Communicate (5-Minute Presentation)

• Prepare a 5-minute live presentation (using props, poster trifold boards, skits, or slides) for the judging session.

• Clearly explain the problem, your solution, its potential impact on biodiversity, and ensure every single team member has an active speaking role