Australian startups and innovators in artificial intelligence and robotics are set to gain support from the launch of the country's first AI and Robotics Sprint, known as 'Propel-AIR.'
The initiative, spearheaded by Brisbane's ARM Hub in collaboration with Boston's Mass Robotics, aims to expedite innovation and support businesses, researchers, and entrepreneurs working in robotics and AI. Scheduled to begin in January 2025, Propel-AIR is designed to assist Australian robotics startups, scaleups, and innovators as they develop critical solutions across various industries.
The programme will include a national tour called the Propel-AIR Roadshow, which plans to visit major cities across Australia from February through April. Ten finalists will be selected in May, with a showcase event projected for July. The victorious team will receive the opportunity to travel for a month's exchange to Mass Robotics in Boston. This prize includes a year-long residency and organized visits to essential companies and institutions within Boston's tech community, including Boston Dynamics and MIT.
Winning participants will also benefit from mentorship directly with Mass Robotics staff, engaging with one of the globe's most active AI and robotics ecosystems. Cori Stewart, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ARM Hub, is the driving force behind Propel-AIR.
Stewart stated, "Developments in artificial intelligence are an enormous opportunity for Australia's highly skilled robotics industry." She highlighted the potential for AI to influence sectors ranging from industrial applications to care and support roles, saying, "Robots now have potential to serve humans better, from packing goods on the manufacturing floor to helping take care of our loved ones in hospitals and residential care. Propel-AIR will surface and support the best of these ideas and connect great Ozzie ideas to global market opportunities. Mass Robotics in Boston is an exceptional partner for ARM Hub to team up to grow Australia's robotics industry!"
Propel-AIR is scheduled to be formally launched by the Minister for Science and Industry, Ed Husic, in Queensland on 12 December at the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Hub in Brisbane. Starting in January, the competition invites participation from any Australian innovators, startups, and entrepreneurs in the AI and robotics segments.
