Filics raises $16 million to advance pallet moving tech, RoboBusiness Pitchfire 2025 now open for applications, and more

Daily brief on news from the world of autonomous mobile robots

Jul 08, 2025

Filics raises $16 million to expand autonomous pallet-moving robots
Munich-based startup Filics has secured $16 million in funding, with Amazon’s Industrial Innovation Fund as a key investor. Filics specializes in autonomous mobile robots designed to move standard pallets, offering a safer and more flexible alternative to traditional forklifts.

The company, founded in 2019, has partnerships with DHL Group and Nagel Group. Its Unit platform is set to launch by year’s end, with European expansion planned for 2026.

Calgary’s Attabotics files for bankruptcy after mass layoffs
Warehouse robotics firm Attabotics has filed for bankruptcy protection, terminating nearly all of its 200 employees following failed attempts to secure new funding. The Calgary-based company, once a tech industry standout with over $200 million in investments, struggled with mounting losses and a shrinking customer base.

Various publications report that CEO Scott Gravelle confirmed the layoffs, and the company's future remains uncertain as it seeks to restructure and address $73 million in liabilities.

NEURA Robotics and HD Hyundai partner to develop shipbuilding robots
NEURA Robotics has entered a strategic partnership with HD Hyundai Samho and HD Hyundai Robotics to jointly develop and test quadruped and humanoid robots for shipbuilding.

The collaboration aims to increase efficiency, safety, and productivity in shipyards by leveraging NEURA’s cognitive robotics technology and Hyundai’s automation expertise. Robots will be tested in real-world shipyard environments, addressing skilled labor shortages and advancing intelligent automation in the industry.

RoboBusiness Pitchfire opens 2025 startup competition for robotics innovators

The 2025 RoboBusiness Pitchfire Startup Competition is now accepting applications from robotics startups for its October 15-16 event in Santa Clara, California. Eligible companies—under five years old, with fewer than 30 employees, and seed-funded or unfunded—will pitch to judges for a $5,000 prize and a free expo booth. The deadline to apply is July 16, 2025. Past winners include Robotics 88, Glidance, and Tatum Robotics.