Robotics Factory opens applications for Scale Residency Program

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Pittsburgh-area robotics startups can now find more support through the Robotics Factory. The organization yesterday opened applications for its Scale Residency Program, which is intended to foster a culture of growth and collaboration for companies at various stages of development.

Hardware and robotics accounted for 68% of Pittsburgh’s tech investments in 2023, compared with 39% in 2022, according to Ernst & Young LLP’s 12th annual review of the region’s technology investment landscape. 

The Robotics Factory is a division of Innovation Works dedicated to creating, accelerating, and scaling robotics companies in the Pittsburgh area. Earlier this month, it accepted a pilot cohort of five startups and said it is ready to expand the program. 

“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,” stated Kevin Dowling, managing director of the Robotics Factory.

“Pittsburgh has developed into a technology hub, and robotics is a huge reason why,” he added. “We’re seeking applicants that can contribute to that continued growth and make a positive impact as we keep building this community.”

Scale Residency Program benefits

The Robotics Factory said participants in its Scale Program will gain hands-on support, access to cutting-edge tools, and grant funding. They will also have access to rapid prototyping, educational resources, and space in the Tech Forge building in Lawrenceville, Pa., part of “Robotics Row.” 

Interested companies can learn more about the Robotics Factory’s Scale residency program by registering for a virtual information session on Friday, March 29, at noon EDT. The organization said applications will be approved monthly until the program reaches capacity. Parties interested in applying can do so on the Robotics Factory’s website. 

The Pittsburgh Robotics Network (PRN) supports the Robotics Factory, which is also funded in part by a $63 million Build Back Better Regional Challenge Grant. The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) awarded the grant to the Southwestern Pennsylvania New Economy Collaborative, which administers it.

Learn from Agility Robotics, Amazon, Disney, Teradyne and many more.

Inside the Robotics Factory pilot cohort

The organization’s residency cohort is made up of:

• ESTAT Actuation creates electro-adhesive clutches and brakes that it claimed are 10 times lighter, 10 times more compact, and 1,000 times more efficient than conventional hardware. The company spun out from Carnegie Mellon University in 2019.
• KEF Robotics provides autonomy software to fly pilotless aircraft. Founded in 2018, the computer vision company said its algorithms use cameras to ensure autonomous flights across various platforms.
• Thorne Baby produces a play yard that opens automatically with no assembly required. The startup created its product for easy in-home mobility and on-the-go portability.
• Thiopoly has developed a physical library of medications to enable highly accurate dispensing systems.
• Piximo constructs mobile minimarts operated by remote drivers and provides production scalability.