Irish Robotics Startups: Innovating Automation from Warehouses to Space

From automating industrial production lines to pioneering space-tech solutions, Irish robotics startups are making significant waves in the global technology landscape. As we explore the intersection of automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics, SiliconRepublic.com has compiled an insightful overview of the most innovative Irish companies reshaping this dynamic sector.

Akara: Healthcare Robotics Pioneers

Founded in 2020 as a Trinity College Dublin spin-out, Akara has achieved remarkable recognition in the robotics industry. The company’s groundbreaking work has earned it not one, but two appearances on Time Magazine’s prestigious “Best Inventions” list.

In 2019, Akara’s robot Stevie became a Time Magazine cover star, capturing global attention for its potential in senior care applications. Building on this momentum, the company’s AI sensor was featured in the 2025 list under the medical and healthcare category, demonstrating consistent innovation and excellence.

Operating from Dublin 8’s Digital Hub, Akara leverages artificial intelligence and robotics to revolutionize healthcare environments. Their technology specializes in monitoring and disinfecting critical areas such as hospital operating theaters, addressing crucial needs in medical facility management. The company’s success was further validated when it won the Irish leg of the 2025 KPMG Global Tech Innovator competition, cementing its position as a leader in health-tech robotics.

Eiratech: Comprehensive Automation Solutions

Dublin-based Eiratech, founded in 2014 by CEO Alexey Tabolkin, has established itself as a provider of comprehensive “goods-to-person robotics automation platforms.” The company offers an integrated approach to e-fulfillment, materials handling, kitting, and retail automation.

Eiratech’s system includes automated guided vehicle robots, picking stations, and shuttle racks, all designed with user-friendliness in mind. The company expanded its operations by opening its first UK office in 2021, demonstrating ambitious growth plans.

What sets Eiratech apart is its commitment to providing end-to-end services, from concept design through project installation and management. The company prides itself on not outsourcing any core services, maintaining complete control over electrical and mechanical engineering, safety certification, software development, operational support, maintenance, and post-sales customer service.

Fabtech Robotics: Manufacturing Excellence

Based in Co Monaghan, Fabtech Robotics specializes in providing robotic solutions for the manufacturing industry. Founded in 2018 and previously known as DesignPro Robotics, the company focuses on applications including welding, coating, blasting, and material preparation.

Fabtech argues that incorporating robotics into manufacturing processes delivers multiple benefits: faster and more consistent results, increased production capacity, safer work environments, and superior product quality. Their solutions are designed to address the evolving needs of modern manufacturing facilities.

Forge Robotics: AI-Powered Welding Innovation

Galway-based Forge Robotics, founded by CEO Eoin Cobbe and CTO Robert Cormican, represents the cutting edge of AI robotics innovation. The company was selected for Y Combinator’s prestigious accelerator program in September, joining an impressive roster of Irish startups backed by the San Francisco-based program, including Luminate Medical, Protex AI, and Solidroad.

Forge Robotics is developing an AI-powered intelligence layer specifically designed to enhance industrial robot welding capabilities. Their system enables robots to scan parts, interpret their geometry, and execute welds even in imperfect setup conditions. This technology addresses a critical challenge in industrial automation, where precise welding remains a complex task.

Despite being relatively new to the accelerator program, Forge Robotics has already incorporated a US entity and is on track to launch its first product in July of this year. The company received $500,000 in pre-seed funding as part of its acceptance into Y Combinator, providing crucial resources for development and scaling.

HomeBot Ireland: Consumer Robotics Revolution

Cork-based HomeBot Ireland, founded in 2024 by Clara Mulligan and her husband Alan, is bringing advanced robotics into everyday consumer applications. The company manufactures robotic vacuums, mops, and lawnmowers, with a mission to create machines that are “really simple to use, with excellent customer service.”

The company’s flagship product, the AI-enabled robot mower called Buddy, represents a significant advancement in consumer robotics. Buddy is a wireless robot equipped with cameras and sensors, programmed to recognize and avoid non-grass areas such as flower beds, paths, and water features. This intelligent navigation system demonstrates how AI can enhance the practical utility of consumer robotics.

Icarus: Space-Tech Robotics Pioneer

Space-tech startup Icarus, co-founded by Co Tyrone-born Jamie Palmer, is headquartered in New York but maintains strong Irish connections. The company raised an impressive $6.1 million in a seed funding round in September, led by Soma Capital and Xtal, with participation from Nebular and Massive Tech Ventures.

Icarus aims to create an intelligent robot force to handle time-consuming and menial tasks in space and industrial environments. Rather than pursuing humanoid designs, the company is developing fan-propelled robots with arms fitted with grippers, optimized for specific operational requirements.

The startup’s first robot will focus on unpacking and stowing cargo, addressing critical needs in warehouse and space operations. Despite being less than two years old, Icarus has already secured significant funding and is positioned to make substantial contributions to the space-tech robotics sector.

Nitrexo: Thermal Solutions for Space Industry

Cork-based Nitrexo, founded in 2019, specializes in delivering cost-effective solutions for thermal and analytical problems in the space industry. The company has already completed seven projects with customers engaged in manufacturing satellites, launchers, spacecraft, and other instruments.

In 2021, Nitrexo launched “Digital Engineer,” a Europe-wide product backed by the European Space Agency (ESA). This AI robot is designed for distributed learning and working environments, bridging the gap between engineering education and industry. The project received €500,000 in support from the ESA, demonstrating the organization’s confidence in Nitrexo’s innovative approach.

Volta Robotics: Sustainable Battery Technology

Also based in Cork, Volta Robotics was founded in 2023 with a focus on sustainable battery technology. The company is developing technology to extract battery cells from electric vehicle batteries and repackage them into residential or utility energy storage solutions.

Founder Elvis Seporaitis participated in the 2023 New Frontiers programme hosted by Munster Technological University, where he received recognition for his innovative business idea. Volta Robotics represents the growing intersection of robotics, sustainability, and energy technology.

The Future of Irish Robotics

These Irish startups demonstrate the country’s growing strength in robotics innovation across multiple sectors. From healthcare and manufacturing to space-tech and consumer applications, Irish companies are developing solutions that address real-world challenges while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with robotics and artificial intelligence.

The success of these startups, many of which have secured significant funding and prestigious partnerships, suggests that Ireland is well-positioned to become a major hub for robotics innovation in the coming years. As automation continues to transform industries globally, these companies are at the forefront of developing the technologies that will shape our future.

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