FIRST® Tech Challenge · Indianola, Iowa
Build.
Compete.
Go Octobots.
Indianola students design, build, and program competition robots. 100% sponsor- and self-funded.
Latest news
The Octobots hit the Homecoming Parade
Robert the mascot, tentacles out the truck windows, Bob and ELIE in the back, and a whole town cheering. Photos inside.
Our 2026–27 sponsorship drive is open
Five levels from $250 to $2,500+. Every dollar goes to parts, tools, entry fees, and travel. Here is why we ask and where it goes.
Kickoff: the 2026–27 game is BIOBUZZ
FIRST revealed this year’s game on September 12. Bees, pollen, hives, and a whole new robot to build.
Next up
Scrimmage
A practice competition before the season starts. A great first look at this year's game.
More than robots
The Indianola Robotics Team competes in the FIRST® Tech Challenge for grades 7–12. Each season the game changes, and students engineer a new robot from scratch, then take it to league play, the Iowa Championship, and beyond.
Community outreach
We bring the robot to schools, clubs, and community events around Indianola. Kids drive it, ask questions, and see what a student-built machine can do. It is our favorite part of the season.
Have a classroom, scout troop, library program, or town event that would like a visit? We would love to come.
School visits
Robot demos
Community events
Get involved
Sponsor
Businesses fund the parts, tools, and entry fees. Your logo rides on the robot and in the pit.
Cheer
League meets and the Iowa Championship are free and open to everyone. Come cheer us on, in person or on the livestream.
Invest in Indianola’s next engineers
No school or government money funds this team. Local businesses and families do. Business sponsorships run $250 to $2,500+ and put your name in front of the whole Iowa robotics community. Families and friends can give any amount.
91% of the way to our 2026–27 season goal