We are entering a golden age of robotics startups — and not just because of AI

The article highlights a significant shift in the robotics startup ecosystem, marking what many investors consider a "golden age" for the sector. Around 2015, early-stage robotics startups struggled to secure venture capital, as most funding favored mature software applications rather than hardware-focused robotics. However, over the past decade, the robotics market has matured substantially, driven by improvements in hardware and software that have become both more advanced and affordable. This maturation, coupled with growing investor interest, has led to a surge in funding—$6 billion poured into robotics startups in the first seven months of 2025 alone, with projections indicating funding will surpass 2024 levels, making robotics one of the few non-AI sectors experiencing such growth. The industry's momentum did not arise solely from recent AI advancements, though AI has played a role in enhancing robotic technologies. Instead, a pivotal moment was Amazon’s acquisition of Kiva Systems in 2013, which catalyzed a wave of robotics startups and attracted engineering talent to