The purpose of the IEEE/IFR Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Robotics and Automation (IERA) Award is to highlight and honor the achievements of the inventors who value creating ideas and entrepreneurs who propel those ideas into world-class products. In a joint event, the IEEE Robotics and Automation Society (RAS) and the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) will therefore recognize and honor the outstanding personal achievements of entrepreneurs in the commercialization of innovative robotic and automation technology.

These achievements will be recognized in a specially organized IEEE/IFR Joint Forum on Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Robotics and Automation, which is being held in conjunction with the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA), which will take place from 13-17 May 2023 in Yokohama, Japan.

The selected finalists will have the opportunity to present their story of the genesis of a successful innovative product in robotics and automation from its very inception to the final state of commercialization in a series of plenary lectures. The ultimate winner will be chosen by an evaluation board consisting of distinguished individuals from industry and academia. A certificate will be awarded to each finalist, and the winner will receive a prestigious plaque as well as a US$2,000 prize.

Check out this year’s handout for more details on how to apply. For more information about the award, including previous winners, check out the IEEE IERA page. Please note that applications are due by February 10, 2024; they may be submitted either to secretariat@ifr.org or to ras@ieee.org.