MassRobotics Accelerator opens to second round of startup applications

Much of the most impactful support for robotics startups happens at the local level. MassRobotics today announced the launch of its second MassRobotics Accelerator in partnership with the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.

After the success of the inaugural program, the partners said the upcoming accelerator will support robotics entrepreneurs with programming, mentorship, and immersion in the MassRobotics ecosystem.

“Our inaugural program saw tremendous success, and this year, we are ready to build upon that foundation,” stated Marita McGinn, director of the MassRobotics Accelerator program. “With an expanded curriculum and deeper industry connections, the 2025 accelerator will empower another cohort of robotics founders to push themselves and expand their businesses.”

The application process is now open, and the deadline for submissions is Oct. 25.

MassRobotics Accelerator builds on success

The second accelerator will be housed at MassRobotics headquarters in Boston’s Seaport Innovation District. The 13-week program offers access to resources including prototyping labs and expert guidance to help startups scale.

Ten robotics startups will be selected for the accelerator, which is set to begin on Feb. 3, 2025. These companies will benefit from a curriculum that has been further refined to address the unique challenges faced by robotics startups. The program will cover essential areas such as value proposition, customer discovery, pitch delivery, team building, and fundraising.

“Being part of the MassRobotics Startup Accelerator has been crucial for our growth at Robotics 88,” noted Erin Linebarger, CEO of Robotics 88, which has developed aerial drones to monitor controlled burns for land management.

“We have met an incredible cast of mentors who have become formal advisors in our company,” she added. “The mentorship, resources, and connections we gained and the supportive network of founders this program created has helped us move forward faster and with more confidence. It was a key step in getting our company where it is today.”

Register now.

Program highlights:

• Non-dilutive funding: In line with its nonprofit mission, MassRobotics will provide selected startups with $100,000 in non-dilutive funding so they can focus on growth without sacrificing equity.
• Individualized guidance: Participants will have access to a network of seasoned mentors and industry experts, offering invaluable insights into refining business strategies, navigating technical challenges, scaling operations, and preparing for fundraising.
• World-class facilities: The accelerator will provide access to MassRobotics’ collaborative space, cutting-edge prototyping labs, and specialized equipment. This includes CNC machines, 3D printers, laser cutters, waterjet cutters, and more.
• Industry connections: Startups will gain introductions and opportunities for partnerships with leading robotics and AI companies, academic institutions, and government agencies in Massachusetts, fostering potential collaborations and investor relationships.
• Startup Showcase: The program will culminate in a showcase at the Robotics Summit & Expo on April 30, 2025, where participating startups will pitch to investors, industry leaders, and the tech community.

MassRobotics is a strategic partner of WTWH Media, which produces the Robotics Summit & Expo, RoboBusiness, and The Robot Report.

MassTech collaborates to expand opportunities

This initiative continues to build on MassRobotics’ legacy of fostering innovation within the robotics sector. It also reflects the ongoing commitment of Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MassTech) to advancing robotics in Massachusetts, said the organizations.

“The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative is excited to be powering the MassRobotics Accelerator for the second year with $100,000 per company in non-dilutive funding,” said Peter Haas, director of the Department of Robotics at MassTech. “We are happy to see robotics startups setting up roots in Massachusetts to drive the growth of our vibrant robotics ecosystem and advance innovation in this sector.”

MassRobotics said its mission is to help create and scale the next generation of successful robotics and AI technology companies. It does this by providing entrepreneurs and startups with the workspace, resources, programming, and connections they need to develop, prototype, test, and commercialize their systems.

Although the organization is located in Boston, it supports robotics innovation and adoption globally. MassRobotics works with startups, academia, industry, and governments both domestically and internationally.