MassRobotics, the leading robotics innovation hub in the world, has announced the opening of the AMD Robotics Innovation Challenge. Specifically, this challenge invites participants to explore the benefits and advantages of AMD Kria SOMs to create solutions that seamlessly integrate adaptive computing into their robotics projects. Moreover, companies with existing solutions that welcome customization and optimization through the use of software and hardware re-programmability and acceleration can apply.

Mainly, participants in the challenge will develop innovative new solutions using tools. Among them is the AMD Kria™ KR260 Robotics Starter Kit. Specifically, this platform evaluates and develops applications targeted to robotics, machine vision, and industrial communications & control. Real-time computing requirements become increasingly crucial in robot development. Thus, KR260 presents an ideal solution by offering low power consumption, high performance, reconfigurability, and reliability with a path to volume production with the K26 SOM.

The Kria KR260 Robotics Starter Kit

By participating in this challenge, contenders will gain invaluable mentorship and hands-on experience working with AMD adaptive computing technology and development tools, while networking with industry leaders in robotics and technology.

Applications for the AMD Robotics Innovation Challenge will be accepted from May 22 to June 15, 2023. Selected companies will be granted access to Kria KR260 starter kits, AMD gear, mentorship opportunities. They will get the chance to showcase their revolutionary technology in the AMD booth at prominent robotics industry trade shows.

“We are thrilled to launch the AMD Robotics Innovation Challenge in collaboration with AMD, a company that has played a key role in advancing the field of robotics through its many developments and investments,” said Juan Necochea, Director of Strategic Partnerships at MassRobotics. “This challenge presents a unique opportunity for early-stage robotics companies to demonstrate their skills and expertise utilizing the AMD Kria KR260 Robotics Starter Kits. We are excited to witness the groundbreaking solutions that emerge from this collaboration.”

Specifically, the timeline for the challenge is as follows:

Eligible companies for the AMD Robotics Innovation Challenge should focus on addressing complex problems in the field of robotics. Also, they should be an early-stage startup (up to Series A) and have a solid team with digital and analog design expertise. Moreover, they should possess strong leadership with a proven track record and a defensible IP position.

Among the range of benefits for the participants are: 1)prize funding of $5,000 USD per selected startup; 2)access to AMD’s innovation centers and experts in Industrial, Vision, Healthcare & Sciences markets; 3) opportunity to showcase solutions at prominent events, such as ROSCon and SPS trade shows, under the AMD banner; 4)introductions to MassRobotics’ extensive robotics network; 5)access to AMD Kria KR260 Robotics Starter Kits; and 6) opportunity to collaborate on marketing and media engagements such as press announcements, articles and tradeshows.

“AMD is excited to collaborate with MassRobotics on the Robotics Innovation Challenge,” said Chetan Khona, senior director of Industrial, Vision, Healthcare and Sciences Markets at AMD. “AMD Kria SOMs are an ideal platform to accelerate robotics innovation and easily take ideas to production at scale. We look forward to seeing the creative applications that result of our ever-growing commitment to the robotics community.”

Join MassRobotics and AMD in shaping the future of robotics through innovation and collaboration. Apply for the AMD Robotics Innovation Challenge here today.