MassRobotics Hosts KAIST Global Commercialization Center (GCC) Startups for International Immersion Program

MassRobotics recently welcomed 10 innovative Korean startups for an intensive, week-long International Immersion Program, in partnership with the KAIST Global Commercialization Center (GCC). Designed to help international startups expand their operations into the U.S., this program offered an invaluable opportunity for Korean entrepreneurs to connect with Boston’s world-class robotics ecosystem, gain deep insights into the U.S. market, and build strategic networks for future growth.

Bridging Robotics Innovation from Korea to Boston

As part of its mission to foster global innovation, MassRobotics facilitated a curriculum tailored to the needs of the Korean startups, all of which have already raised venture capital funding and developed working prototypes. The program’s core focus was to prepare these startups for a successful U.S. launch, by covering key topics crucial to their growth, including:

1. Understanding U.S. Legal Structure: Startups learned the intricacies of navigating U.S. corporate laws, intellectual property, and regulatory requirements to ensure a smooth entry into the American market.
2. Sourcing POCs with U.S. Companies: Startups were introduced to strategies for identifying and working with U.S. companies to develop proof of concept (POC) partnerships. These collaborations can help Korean startups demonstrate their technology’s value and build local credibility.
3. U.S. Market Entry Strategy: Experts provided insights on market trends, customer acquisition, and competitive analysis, arming startups with the knowledge to develop a tailored strategy for entering the U.S. market.
4. Fundraising: Participants gained exposure to U.S. venture capital expectations and best practices for securing additional funding as they scale their businesses stateside.

A Cohort of Innovation

The Korean startups represented a wide range of cutting-edge technologies, from autonomous drones to AI-driven robotics and logistics solutions. The participating companies included:

• Morphing I: AI-driven MorphingBot, Long-range small pipe inspections with precise GIS data and leak prediction.
• Narma: Narma, a KARI spin-off, commercialized the first electric dual tiltrotor drone, focusing on long-distance and high-altitude flights.
• DAIM Research: AI autonomous manufacturing logistics, Pioneering autonomous manufacturing with AI and digital twin technologies.
• Hurotics: AI-based wearable robot manufacturing company specializing in modular designs that offer customized gait assistance and rehabilitation treatment for wearers.
• ArgosVision: Panoramic 3D vision AI for robots and mobility, enhancing robot intelligence with a human-like wide field of view.
• DOGU: Making the world safer with ASR (AI-powered Safety Robot), Providing security-AI solution and autonomous robotics platforms, DOGU specializes in AI-powered Safety Robots (ASR) for both indoor and outdoor environments.
• Floatic: A future that expands temporal/boundaries, autonomous mobile robot solution for e-commerce warehouse automation
• EasternGear: Putting efficiency into motion, EPG designs and manufactures next-generation transmissions for high-tech industries.
• Speedfloor: SpeedFloor automates cargo handling for specialized vehicles, boosting transport efficiency.
• L-line: leading AMR and E-Mobility industry innovation through global engineering.

Startups in the program had the opportunity to pitch to several mentors as well as to the MassRobotics residents followed by a networking event.

Building Global Connections for Long-Term Success

The week-long program included not only educational sessions but also networking opportunities with Boston’s robotics professionals, venture capitalists, and business leaders. These connections are vital for startups seeking to establish a U.S. presence, build partnerships, and scale operations.

The group had the opportunity to meet U.S. robotics companies Boston Dynamics and Vecna Robotics and enjoyed discussion around growing a business here in the U.S. from first hand experienced leaders. They also received technology demonstrations from these robotic leaders. 

As part of the MassRobotics International Immersion Program, this initiative underscores the organization’s commitment to supporting the global expansion of robotics technology. The program provides the resources and mentorship necessary to succeed in the U.S.

Looking Ahead

By the end of the week, the participating Korean startups left with a clearer vision for their U.S. expansion plans and a network of contacts to help them achieve their goals. As MassRobotics continues to build bridges between global innovators and the Boston robotics ecosystem, programs like this one will play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of robotics technology worldwide.

For international organizations with groups of startups interested in taking their next steps in the U.S., MassRobotics’ International Immersion Program offers a unique opportunity to receive expert guidance, connect with key players in the robotics space, and lay the groundwork for a successful U.S. market entry.

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