Wildfire Research Competition

WHO WE ARE: 

We are a group of student researchers supporting the UT Austin-led team of international partners (the University of Southampton, the University of Edinburgh, Delft University of Technology, Clemson University, and the Texas A&M Forest Services) in advancing through the XPRIZE Wildfire Competition. The competition aims to transform current wildfire management approaches by developing new technologies that can rapidly and accurately detect, characterize, and respond to wildfires before they become destructive. 

We are proud to share that we are one of 29 teams selected from thousands to advance to the semi-final in April. To claim a spot in the finals, we need money to fund our research, development, and testing. Donations will go directly to: 

• Purchase building materials such as fiberglass and resin
• Purchase parts for the drones such as batteries and guidance electronics
• Purchase fire suppression balls for drop test
• Pay for mileage for our team to travel to do field testing 

WHY NOW: 

Wildfires are no longer just a distant disaster but a growing threat to people everywhere. The university’s participation in the XPRIZE Wildfire competition is a testament to the institution’s commitment to addressing pressing global challenges through technological innovation. We believe that our team of leading scientists and engineers is capable of creating firefighting technologies that dramatically improve the detection and suppression of damaging wildfires, enabling the safe management of all high-risk fires. 

There’s no time to waste. As the risks grow with every passing year, so does the urgency to act. Your generosity goes beyond just funding our success—it’s an investment in hope, resilience, and a safer future. Together, we can transform these bold ideas into real solutions that protect communities, wildlife, and our planet.

This is how we fight back against wildfires, and it starts with you.