We support Florida’s economic development by encouraging and promoting participation in STEM for the benefit of Florida’s technology and scientific community. The Orlando Regional FIRST Robotics Competition started in 1999 with 28 teams at the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Center. After four years of growth, the decision was made to move to the University Of Central Florida Arena in 2003. Today, this is where Florida teams still compete. The Regional is an international favorite. The Orlando Regional has had teams competing from Canada, Germany, Australia, Brazil, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Israel, Turkey and Great Britain.