The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Hub (ARM Hub) recently marked five years in Australia's tech manufacturing with an Industry Day in Northgate, Brisbane. The event gathered leaders and researchers from manufacturing, AI, and robotics sectors to discuss advancements in Industry 5.0.
A key announcement was the launch of Exit 2030, an accelerator program by ARM Hub aimed at deep tech and advanced manufacturers. This initiative supports start-up founders in planning their exit strategies after company establishment. ARM Hub CEO Professor Cori Stewart stated, "Exit 2030 is a mastermind group designed exclusively for founders who plan to exit their businesses in the next 3-5 years."
Stewart elaborated on the unique challenges of exiting such businesses, noting, "Investors and acquirers look beyond revenue - they care about IP defensibility, scalability, strategic positioning, and long-term value creation."
Another focus was the Banana Dehanding Project, targeting automation in Queensland's banana production. Stewart mentioned, "This project will invent a new-to-the-world banana picking tool, generating patents and providing a commercial solution for farmers in northwest Queensland, particularly in Tully."
The project is a collaboration between the Australian Banana Growers Council (AGBC), Hort Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Future Food Systems CRC, and BNL Industrial Solutions.
Source: Industry Update