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Robotics Factory Scale Residency Opens Application Window

robotics
The Robotics Factory Accelerate Program invests in early-stage robotics startups based in Southwestern Pennsylvania. (Image: Robotics Factory)

Insider Brief

  • The Robotics Factory has opened the application for its Scale Residency Program.
  • The program is a division of Innovation Works dedicated to creating, accelerating and scaling robotics companies in the Pittsburgh region.
  • According to the 12th annual review of Pittsburgh’s tech investment landscape, hardware and robotics accounted for 68% of the region’s tech investments in 2023, compared to just 39% in 2022.
  • Image: The Robotics Factory

PRESS RELEASE — The Robotics Factory, a division of Innovation Works dedicated to creating, accelerating and scaling robotics companies in the Pittsburgh region, has opened the application for its Scale Residency Program.

The program supports companies at various stages to foster a culture of growth and collaboration and recently accepted a pilot cohort of five innovative startups. Participants gain hands-on support, access to cutting-edge tools, grant funding, rapid prototyping, educational resources, and space in the Tech Forge building in Lawrenceville, part of “Robotics Row.”

Robotics companies are one of the biggest contributors to the growing local economy. According to the 12th annual review of Pittsburgh’s tech investment landscape, hardware and robotics accounted for 68% of the region’s tech investments in 2023, compared to just 39% in 2022.

“Our staff of entrepreneurs has walked in these founders’ shoes, so we know how to make product designs optimal for manufacturing, have connections with local manufacturers, and understand what it takes to scale production,” said Kevin Dowling, Managing Director of the Robotics Factory. “Pittsburgh has developed into a technology hub, and robotics is a huge reason why. We’re seeking applicants that can contribute to that continued growth and make a positive impact as we keep building this community.”

Among the criteria the Robotics Factory considers during the application process are:

  • Applicability: Projects that advance an entrepreneurial robotics concept

  • Relevant experience: Some familiarity with the robotics industry and a demonstrated willingness and ability to learn

  • Community involvement: Active, positive members of the community who will share their ideas, skills, and connections for the benefit of the Robotics Factory community

  • Diversity: In thought, background, ambition, and experience — all critical factors that maintain balance across the Robotics Factory community

  • Potential: Ideas that can help a company grow or demonstrate opportunity for Innovation Works’ and its partners’ programs

Learn more about the Robotics Factory’s Scale residency program by registering for a virtual information session on Friday, March 29, at 12 p.m. EDT. Applications will be approved monthly until the program reaches capacity; founders can apply here.

Matt Swayne
About the author
Matt Swayne

With a several-decades long background in journalism and communications, Matt Swayne has worked as a science communicator for an R1 university for more than 12 years, specializing in translating high tech and deep tech for the general audience. He has served as a writer, editor and analyst at The Space Impulse since its inception. In addition to his service as a science communicator, Matt also develops courses to improve the media and communications skills of scientists and has taught courses.

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