It was standing room only as media, dignitaries, tech luminaries, and AI-enabled droids gathered for the official opening of MassRobotics‘ new 25,000 square-foot laboratory, demonstration, and event space in Boston’s Seaport Innovation District.

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, and executives from Amazon Robotics, iRobot, and MassRobotics delivered remarks to the crowd of 100+ assembled for the Jan. 28 celebration.

“’The kinds of capabilities [at MassRobotics] don’t just make robotics companies strong, they make all kinds of companies stronger,” commented Baker.

He and Walsh both extolled the non-profits’ support for resident startup companies, contributions to STEM education and employment in the commonwealth.

Chairman of the MassRobotics Board of Directors Tim Rowe noted the Bay State’s long and storied history of innovation, including Alexander Graham Bell’s invention of the telephone only blocks away from the organization’s Channel Street location.

An innovation hub for startups across robotics, automation, connected devices, and artificial intelligence, MassRobotics first opened in 2017. The group believes this recent expansion to 40,000 square feet will enable support to more than 70-companies and 200 employees seeking their assistance.

Tom Ryden, MassRobotics executive director, specifically thanked MITRE for our ongoing contributions to the organization, including support of residents and alumni, before a TruPhysics-powered robot extended the ribbon to make the opening official.

Mass. Gov. Charlie Baker speaks at the MassRobtics ribbon cutting in Boston’s Seaport Innovation District. (Photo by Joyce Sidopoulos)

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