Robotics Industry Showcase 2026

Pioneers, leaders, investors, policymakers and academics are invited us to discover latest robotics technologies and explore opportunities to enhance services, and create safer, more resilient smart city systems in transport, energy, healthcare, waste management, education, and public safety.

Overview

As part of the Innovate UK Robotics Adoption programme, and in alignment with the recent announcement on the launch of a £52 million competition for new Robotics Adoption Hubs across the country, this full-day showcase event will bring about dynamic conversations on how robotics plays a critical role in improving sustainability, efficiency, and social inclusion.

From autonomous vehicles and delivery robots to medicine discovery, robotic waste sorters and AI-enabled infrastructure monitoring, the integration of robotics, technologies, people and processes can help to automate tasks, enhance services, and create safer, more resilient systems.

This showcase will demonstrate how robotics technologies are being used in the real world today whilst connecting industry, academia, government, and developers to explore capabilities, spark new collaborations and inspire the next wave of adoption.

About the event

Led by Innovate UK with partners Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), techUK, Milton Keynes City Council and Smart City Consultancy, this showcase features:

Accelerate Robotics Summit

Designed to increase the adoption, integration, and diffusion of robotic technologies across UK industries, this top-flight conference that will take place across three rooms will bring robotics ecosystem stakeholders together to discuss how to harness the UK robotic capability to power mass robotic adoption with top-flight discussions on how to:

  • Close the UK productivity gap through automation.
  • Support SMEs in digital transformation.
  • Boost global competitiveness of UK robotic industry.
  • Enhance resilience and agility across sectors.

Details of our high-profile agenda and speakers will be announced in due course.

Solution Hub

This interactive area offers investors and challenge holders the chance to discover real examples of practical robotics solutions and identify early adoption synergies, as well as ask questions, and receive tailored guidance on how robotics can address their specific needs.

The challenges from our partners encompass smart cities and include healthcare, aviation, and hospitality as follows:

  • Deploying safe robotic companion systems to reduce paediatric anxiety in clinical environments
    Robotic companion systems are sought by Milton Keynes University Hospital to improve patient experience, reduce anxiety, and support clinical workflows.
  • Deploying safe robotics and autonomous systems for construction and airside operations
    Autonomous systems that enable safety, productivity and efficiency are of interest for Heathrow Airport’s complex 24/7 operational environment.
  • Deploying robotics to enhance fan experience, operations and revenue
    Stadium MK is keen to enhance fan experience and reduce congestion whilst increasing on-site revenue during football matches and large events.

Exhibition and Robotics Runway

Come and see robots walk, crawl, move, fly, slide or roll! In addition to an exciting catwalk of different robot types, attendees will be able to visit companies who will be showcasing latest prototypes, models and applications that would demonstrate the integration of technology, people, and processes.

Networking and 1-2-1 Meetings

In addition to taking advantage of the invaluable networking opportunities amongst UK based pioneers and leaders, registered attendees will be able to book 15-minute meetings to build and strengthen strategic relationships with decision-makers, experts, academics and robotics businesses.

What applications will be explored?

Participants will be able to share ideas and gain exclusive insights whilst seeing latest solutions and application developments of robotics across sectors.

Anything from automated assembly and remote handling to drone-based data gathering, waste sorting, and precision monitoring. Below are just some of the common areas that robotics have been identified to help the most:

  • Improve working conditions and reduce exposure to hazardous working conditions.
  • Boosting efficiency and capacity from battery production to hospital logistics.
  • Inclusive employment to enable remote operation roles for individuals with disabilities or care responsibilities.

Who should attend?

This exciting showcase is open to anyone who is interested in the future of robotics in the UK. whether you are an end-user, industry leader, business decision maker, practitioner, technology innovator, investor, in research or education, or from government or regulatory bodies – this is your opportunity to take part in a pivotal moment for the UK robotics technologies community.

Why attend?

This is your opportunity to take part in a pivotal moment for the UK robotics technologies community. If you are interested in showcasing, investing or developing a deeper understanding of the opportunities ahead, this showcase presents the ideal platform for innovation to meet commercial impact.

  • Hear from industry experts and ask questions relevant to you / your business.
  • Find out how about innovation needs and solutions to address real world challenges.
  • Make new connections with innovators, businesses, researchers, funders, and policymakers.
  • Meet potential project collaborators to drive the next wave of robotics adoption.
  • Experience the full landscape from early-stage prototypes to market-ready solutions.
  • See the future of UK robotics and gain early insights into government initiatives.

Register for the showcase to spark collaborative projects, funding opportunities, and discover adoption pathways and for the chance to:

  • Showcase innovative products and services.
  • Connect with our partner ecosystem and challenge holders.
  • Explore new partnerships and collaboration opportunities.
  • Gain insights into market trends and emerging technologies.
  • Hear and see latest robotics technologies and case studies.
  • Network with your peers as well as specialists from Innovate UK.
  • Shape the future of the industry.

 

Express your interest by 9 February

If you have a technology or solution that you wish to showcase in the Solution Hub, Exhibition and/or Robotics Runway, please note that applications will be reviewed until 9 February 2026.

Details of who has been selected to participate will be shared thereafter.

Accessibility and Inclusion

We are committed to ensuring our events are accessible for all.

If you experience any barriers to registering, for any reason, please contact us by email: enquiries@iukbc.org.uk or phone: +44 03333 403250 and we will support your registration.

Programme

This Event is part of Robotics Proving Ground .

Pioneering robotics evolution through powering a network of hubs to fast-track robotics from concept to market.

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