# Open Nominations for the 2027 Robotics Innovation Awards
The search is on for the most groundbreaking robotics achievements of 2026! Nominations are now officially open for the annual Robotics Innovation Awards, which have been celebrating the industry’s brightest minds since 2012.
This year, the organizers are rebranding the prestigious awards to reflect the rapidly evolving landscape of the industry. Whether you are a startup founder or an established industry leader, now is the time to highlight your most impressive breakthroughs.
The deadline for all submissions is **Friday, January 5, 2027**. Winners will be announced and celebrated at an exclusive awards gala during the Robotics Summit & Expo, taking place on June 2 and 3, 2027, in Boston. Attendees of the summit will also have the chance to see award-winning robots in action on the expo floor.
## Who Is Eligible?
To be considered, all nominations must feature innovations that were initiated, released, or executed between January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026. The awards are open to organizations and researchers from around the world.
## Award Categories
The competition recognizes a wide variety of robotics achievements across eight distinct categories:
**Startup of the Year**
This award goes to a company that is less than five years old and is already actively testing its innovation with customers. Past recipients include a firm offering AI models that revolutionize how robots learn, as well as a company recognized for its work in autonomous logistics.
**Application of the Year**
This category highlights a use case that was previously difficult to automate, where robotics has demonstrated a clear benefit over previous processes. Recent winners have been recognized for developing wearable robots to aid stroke recovery and for deploying robots to safely handle radioactive materials at nuclear facilities.
**Robot of the Year**
Seeking a robot that is a true game-changer in terms of technology, real-world use, and industry influence. Previous winners include an advanced warehouse sorting robot and a leading autonomous vehicle developer.
**Robots for Good**
This award honors robots that make a positive impact on society by addressing social challenges, improving quality of life, or promoting sustainability. Recent honorees include a robotic hand enabling tactile sign language communication and a mobile manipulator designed to assist with elder care.
**Best Use of AI**
A brand-new category introduced this year, the Best Use of AI Award will honor a real-world application where artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the robotics sector.
**Products**
This category celebrates the launch of new robots, enabling technologies, and cutting-edge research.
**Business**
This award recognizes major company milestones, unique business models, and other initiatives that position an organization as a market leader.
**Applications**
The final category honors innovations that boost productivity, improve quality, reduce costs, or successfully automate entirely new tasks.
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## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
**Q: What types of innovations can I nominate?**
A: Nominations can include new robots, AI software, automation systems, or any groundbreaking application of robotics technology. The innovation must have been initiated, released, or executed during the 2026 calendar year.
**Q: Is there a limit to how many categories a company can enter?**
A: Yes, applicants can select up to two categories of innovation to apply for in a single submission.
**Q: What happens if my company wins an award?**
A: Winners will be celebrated at the awards gala during the Robotics Summit & Expo in Boston on June 2, 2027. Winners also receive complimentary tickets to the gala and have the opportunity to display their systems on the expo floor.
**Q: Who do I contact if I have questions about the submission process?**
A: For any questions related to the 2027 awards, please reach out to the awards coordinator directly through the official submission portal.
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## Conclusion
The annual Robotics Innovation Awards serve as a vital platform for showcasing the technologies shaping our future. From startup breakthroughs to mature robots making a difference in society, these awards highlight the incredible potential of automation and artificial intelligence. If your organization achieved something remarkable in the robotics space during 2026, do not wait—submit your nomination before the January 5 deadline and share your innovation with the world.
Thank you for reading
