Rapita Robotics Secures Economic Grant for Growth Acceleration in Logistics

Rapita Robotics, headquartered in Koto, Tokyo, is making waves in the logistics industry with the announcement of their acceptance into the "Small and Medium Enterprise Growth Acceleration Subsidy" program. This initiative, organized by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, aims to support SMEs in their ambitious goal of achieving 10 billion yen in revenue through strategic investments. The program offers a subsidy rate of 50%, with a maximum grant amount of 500 million yen.

Having received 1,270 applications for the program, only 207 were selected, and Rapita Robotics proudly stands among the chosen few. The company is set to channel this grant into the development of innovative robotics solutions designed to enhance automation and reduce manpower in logistics settings.

Evaluation from the Review Committee

The logistical sector is witnessing significant growth amidst challenges like labor shortages and increased demand for warehouse automation due to the expansion of e-commerce. Rapita Robotics's commitment to innovation has resulted in the successful launch of their flexible automated warehouse solution, Rapita ASRS. This, combined with their picking assist robot, Rapita PA-AMR, and automatic forklift Rapita AFL, positions the company as a comprehensive provider of cutting-edge logistics technology, significantly marking their value to the industry.

The company’s potential is further supported by a team of excellent engineers and a unified control software foundation, indicating a high likelihood of success in the mid-sized warehouse market. Their strategic understanding of business challenges and responses has garnered robust trust from stakeholders, including financial institutions.

Statements from Financial Institutions

In response to this grant acceptance, the Central Cooperative Bank expressed its enthusiasm and commitment to supporting Rapita Robotics. They align with the core purpose of connecting machines to enhance people’s lives and believe that Rapita, as a leader in logistics robotics, will contribute meaningfully to the logistics industry and regional economies. They commit to providing ongoing support not only financially but in various forms to aid the company's growth and challenges ahead.

Pioneering Solutions for Labor Shortages

Rapita Robotics has previously introduced innovative solutions, including the Rapita PA-AMR picking assist robot and the Rapita AFL automatic forklift, capitalizing on unique swarm control AI technology. These advancements aim to address labor shortages and productivity challenges in logistics settings. The recent grant is poised to catalyze further technological development and support under the company's vision of making robots more accessible and useful, contributing to the growth of Japan's logistics sector and regional economies.

The 10 Billion Yen Declaration

The 10 Billion Yen Declaration represents a commitment from SMEs to strive for an ambitious 10 billion yen sales target, underscoring their dedication to growth investments.

About the Small and Medium Enterprise Growth Acceleration Subsidy

This subsidy scheme aims to support bold growth investments targeting 10 billion yen in sales for SMEs. In the latest recruitment round, which closed on June 9, 2025, a total of 1,270 applications were submitted, with 207 applicants successfully receiving grants.

An Overview of Rapita Robotics

Rapita Robotics is a venture emerging from ETH Zurich, a prestigious institution that has produced several renowned researchers, including Einstein. The company is centered around the vision of making robotics attainable and useful for everyone. They are focused on developing next-generation cloud robotics platforms utilizing cutting-edge control and AI technologies, and they offer support in the development, deployment, and operation of robotic solutions. With a team of highly skilled engineers from over 30 countries, alongside a bilingual sales and customer success team well-versed in robotics, Rapita Robotics aims to provide optimal solutions to their clients.