[Andy Brockway]

When contacting the machine shops, also ask for donations. Most have a scrap bin of materials that they may be able to donate. Surplus equipment may be available. Our team builds their robot, except the gearboxes, with a drill press and a bandsaw.

Contact your local hardware stores. Ask if they will give store credit as a donation. This can cover hand tools, materials and hardware.

As for a place to work... Our team has been on the move every year. We have had three different temporary heated (this is New England) space for the build season and unheated space the rest of the year. We are looking at a new heated space for this winter as last years is unavailable. Keep asking, someone may be willing to give you a garage bay to work out of.