News 08 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk February/March 2026 MTC has announced the inaugural cohort of its Automation and Robotics Technology Accelerator (AURA) Programme – a new initiative designed to help companies commercialise their robotic solutions more quickly, strengthening the UK’s advanced manufacturing sector. The pilot scheme provides up to £200,000 of world-class technical support, enabling automation and robotics companies to scale-up production of their solutions and overcome the final barriers to commercialisation. The first cohort brings together three businesses which will work closely with MTC experts to mature their products, optimise manufacturing processes and prepare for commercial success. They are: Carapace Slate – Develops modular, automated manufacturing systems for localised production of ultra-low-carbon building materials. This approach reduces transportation emissions, enables circular use of regional waste materials and supports the construction sector in meeting sustainability targets while lowering cost and labour intensity. Innvotek Ltd – Engineers cutting-edge robotic systems designed for inspection and maintenance in the most extreme environments. From offshore wind to critical maritime and energy assets, their multifunctional technologies deliver safety, minimise risk to human lives and dramatically reduces downtime, enhancing operational efficiency and resilience. E-Nano Ltd – Combines robotics and AI to optimise sports and agricultural land management. Its intelligent systems reduce water and chemical use, improve surface performance and create high-value UK jobs in robotics and data science. The AURA programme draws directly on MTC’s proven capability in derisking advanced automation, supporting SMEs, and nurturing early stage technology development. Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Officer at the Manufacturing Technology Centre commented: “AURA is about backing developments in robotics with high potential for commercialisation. At MTC, our role is to guide companies as they develop their products, improve their processes and get ready for the market. By helping businesses take these steps, we’re boosting wider efforts in championing robotics and automation to improve productivity, resilience and long-term growth for UK industry.” MTC drives automation and robotics scale-up with new accelerator programme Smart Manufacturing Week returns to Birmingham’s NEC Smart Manufacturing Week (SMW) returns to the NEC Birmingham on 34 June 2026. Bringing together a portfolio of events including Smart Factory Expo, Maintec, Drives & Controls and Design + Engineering Expo, Manufacturing Digitalisation Summit and The Manufacturer Top 100 Awards, SMW promises to be a focal point for innovation, insight and industry collaboration. Building on 2025, which the organiser says welcomed more than 13,500 visitors alongside 450+ exhibitors and over 200 speakers, Smart Manufacturing Week 2026 is set to be bigger and more ambitious. With increased international participation expected, the event will deliver an expanded showcase of technologies, ideas and expertise shaping the future of manufacturing. Visitor registration is now open (https://www.smartmanufacturingweek.com). SMW 2026 will feature a strong lineup of leading global exhibitors, including Beckhoff, Solutions PT, Epicor, Ericsson, Produtech, FANUC, Sage and many more. Alongside many other major industry players, the exhibition floor will provide a comprehensive view of the technologies driving manufacturing forward. New for 2026 is Factory of the Future, a fully immersive, walk-through demonstrator bringing connected, intelligent and sustainable manufacturing to life. Visitors will be able to see live, hands-on demonstrations showcasing Industry 4.0 technologies including robotics, AI, digital twins and predictive maintenance working together to make transformation tangible and bridge the gap between ambition and implementation. Another dynamic new feature for 2026 is Fight Fest, a competitive element located within the Drives & Controls Expo. Taking place on the Accu Bots stand, this high-energy robot fighting competition is aligned with automation and robotics, a core event theme.
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