MassRobotics and Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (THL) announced a partnership to bring together their extensive market knowledge, expertise, and networks to advance the scaling of automation-related businesses across robotics and artificial intelligence startups.
Based in Boston, MassRobotics is the first and largest robotics startups escalator in the world. The collective work of this group of engineers, rocket scientists, and entrepreneurs is focused on the needs of the robotics industry.
THL is a private equity firm with a dedicated practice exclusively focused on automation. It focuses on scaling companies beyond Series A funding. THL will work with MassRobotics to make sure its resident startups are advised and prepared to set up and organize themselves in a way that will allow them to scale properly.
Additionally, THL offers years of industry expertise, knowledge and relationships that drive deal sourcing, sound due diligence and investment decision-making, and the capability to add operational value. Essentially, THL will be a partner for the residents to rely on as they proceed further into their own startup venture.
“The automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence industry is a rapidly expanding market, and one that will define the future of many industry verticals on a global basis,” said Fady Saad, MassRobotics Co-founder and Vice President of Strategic Partnerships. “We are thrilled to be partnering with such a well-established investment firm and key player in the private equity space.”
MassRobotics founders and stakeholders get ready to cut the ribbon on its new space with the help of a robot.
Saad recently delivered a talk for RoboBusiness Direct called “The New Investment Model for Robotics Startups.” Saad shared his experience as the Co-founder of MassRobotics and detailed a new model for investment in robotics.
“MassRobotics has substantial knowledge and built a deep network in the robotics industry, and we look forward to sharing our knowledge and expertise with THL to support the scaling of the next generation of thriving robotics companies,” said Tom Ryden, MassRobotics Executive Director.
Mike Kaczmarek of THL said, “We are thrilled to support MassRobotics as they fuel the next generation automation and robotics companies. We look forward to collaborating with MassRobotics and their network of promising companies and accomplished executives.”
MassRobotics’ partners represent a range of companies and industries pursuing innovative robotics solutions, and include Amazon Robotics, Cowen, Harmonic Drive, Husqvarna, MITRE, AeroVironment, Festo, Panasonic and Mitsubishi Electric.
In January, MassRobotics expanded its facility to 40,000 square feet to better serve its resident startups. The added space allows it to now support 70-plus companies and more than 200 employees. In addition to the shared workspace, residents now have access to electronics and mechanical workshops with soldering irons, scopes, 3D printers, laser cutters, mini CNC machines and other assembly tools that are crucial when designing robotics systems.
Editor’s Note: MassRobotics is a strategic partner of the Robotics Summit & Expo, which is produced by The Robot Report and WTWH Media.
exicted to learn more about it