If you look at this thread from 2006 (
http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/sh...ad.php?t=47369) and scroll down to Skimoose's post, he outlines what the costs were for the average team two years ago. I think much of it still holds true; I tell people that they can expect to spend between $1500 and $2000 to launch a team. Competitions range from free to $300, depending on how much sponsorship the event planners can get. My event here in CT was $300 last year and $225 this year; I think the MA event was also $225.