New GBIP in Japan - Robotics & Automation in Manufacturing

Innovate UK is inviting ambitious innovative companies to participate in a 9-12 month programme to help them grow in the Japanese market, including attending Factory Innovation Week.

Applications are invited from new or established innovative technology providers with capability to deliver digital manufacturing solutions in the following technology areas:

• Robotics and automation in manufacturing – including mobile robots & collaborative robots (cobots)
• AI opportunities in Robotics and Automation – including adaptive control & vision systems
• Associated technologies with clear links to robotics and automation such as:
  • End-of-arm-tooling / end effectors
  • Robotic control systems – including no-code, low-code programming
  • Systems integration and interoperability
  • Modular industrial robotic systems – including Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS)
  • Integration of humanoid robotics and human-centric design
  • Digital engineering and simulation – including digital twins and predictive maintenance

Why Japan?

Japan is a global pioneer in robotics and automation, with one of the highest robot densities in manufacturing and a long-standing reputation for excellence in industrial robotics. Robotics is a central pillar of Japan’s smart manufacturing strategy, aimed at enhancing productivity, addressing labour shortages and maintaining global competitiveness.

Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the Japanese economy, contributing approximately 20% of GDP and a significant share of exports. In recent years, the Japanese government has launched several initiatives to revitalise its manufacturing sector through innovation, digital transformation and the adoption of sustainable technologies.

Key dates

Application deadline – Friday 26 September 2025 at 10am
Application outcome – Tuesday 7 October 2025
Get ready workshop – Tuesday 2 & Wednesday 3 December 2025 (In-person)
Market visit – Saturday 17 – Saturday 24 January 2026 (In-person, Japan)
Exploit the opportunity workshop – Tuesday 24 March 2026 (In-person)

Find out more and apply