New Bedford Research & Robotics (NBRR) has been awarded a $65,000 grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) as part of the state's new Ocean Innovation Network, a program providing over $11 million to bolster Massachusetts' leadership in ocean technology. The announcement was made at NBRR during the Southeast stop of MassCEC's Climatetech Corridor Roadshow, with all grant recipients in attendance.
Dr. Emily Reichert, CEO of MassCEC, joined New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell to highlight the South Coast's growing role in clean energy and climate technology. According to Reichert, New Bedford holds a "special place" in MassCEC's leadership due to its longstanding contributions to the blue economy and offshore wind innovation.
The grant will fund the acquisition of a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine, a high-precision manufacturing tool that will enable startups within NBRR's ecosystem to prototype components for underwater robots and other oceantech innovations on-site. This addition streamlines development, reduces production costs, and accelerates innovation for early-stage companies.
“The investment from MassCEC will allow us to expand our hands-on support for oceantech startups while helping to train the next generation of the blue economy workforce,” said Mark Parsons, Executive Director of NBRR. “Access to CNC technology not only strengthens product development but also provides valuable workforce training opportunities in high-demand manufacturing skills.”
Following the announcement, Parsons led a tour of NBRR's developing facility, showcasing the center's growing capabilities. This milestone underscores New Bedford's emergence as a hub for ocean innovation, clean energy, and offshore wind, strengthening the city's place in America's blue economy.
In addition to NBRR's grant, the New Bedford Ocean Cluster (NBOC) received $2.13 million to expand facilities, support its Maritime Business Incubator, and install new prototyping equipment at NBRR, further cementing New Bedford's leadership in marine innovation.
New Bedford Research & Robotics serves as a hub for researchers, entrepreneurs, and companies focused on ocean-related technologies, including robotics, offshore wind, and clean energy. By providing technical resources, collaborative space, and workforce development programs, NBRR is helping to shape the future of Massachusetts' blue economy.
