Robotics Initiative Launched to Drive Massachusetts Innovation

A new initiative to boost the robotics sector across Massachusetts has received a $5 million investment to launch a program fostering growth, innovation and opportunities statewide.

The MassTech Collaborative’s new robotics department plans to focus on expanding research and development, testing, commercialization and workforce development. The initiative builds upon MassTech’s support and investment in robotics over the last 10 years including awarding more than $28 million to advance robotics in the Bay State. 

Peter Haas, former CEO of restaurant robotics company Avendly and a leader in robotics, is taking the helm as department director. 

Economic development secretary Yvonne Ho said the new robotics department will help Massachusetts “craft an innovative wave of robotics technologies that will solidify our global leadership in this field.” 

“We are committed to equipping our students and workforce with the proper tools to envision future advancements as they create autonomous products that will play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future,” she said. “Peter Haas has the knowledge and expertise needed to ensure that we stay ahead of the competition.”

The new department intends to design programs addressing ecosystem development with programs to strengthen connections between stakeholders “to grow and further shape the state’s profile as a global leader in robotics” technology commercialization to offer startup support services, resources and mentorship and workforce development. 

Haas said Massachusetts' robotics cluster is leading robotics clusters across the nation with a talent pool that is unmatched. 

“It is a powerhouse in warehouse and logistics robotics and has a density of unique academic programs that is unparalleled, leading the United States in per capita robotics patents,” he said. 

Boston-based MassRobotics was the first program funded under the new initiative launched in November 2023 to support 10 robotics companies in the state.

“The funding for a robotics department within Mass Tech Collaborative will be impactful to the growing robotics industry here within the Commonwealth,” said Thomas Ryden, MassRobotics executive director. “The department will be in a unique position to highlight the wide range of efforts and resources Massachusetts has to make it the premier place to start and grow robotics and automation companies.”