Smarter Robot Bodies Grant

About this grant

Smarter Robot Bodies is an opportunity space defined by ARIA (Advanced Research and Invention Agency) that explores how progress in AI, control, materials, and manufacturing can improve robotic bodies, enabling robots to approach or exceed the capabilities of biological organisms. The initiative is grounded in the belief that while advances in sensing and computation are improving robot 'brains', the physical limitations of robot bodies will soon become the critical obstacle to ubiquitous robotics. The space seeks to unlock the benefits of intelligent machines to ease physical labour challenges, improve human productivity and welfare, and boost longevity and prosperity. Within this opportunity space, ARIA has launched the Robot Dexterity programme, backed by £57 million (approximately $71.25 million USD), which funds cutting-edge research across robotic hardware and advanced simulation to demonstrate a paradigm shift in robotic abilities. The programme aims to transform robotic capabilities and unlock a step change in human productivity through a portfolio of selected and funded projects directed by ARIA's Programme Directors. ARIA is also developing a further programme focused on Robot Locomotion, exploring how new forms of locomotion could enable robots to operate beyond the limits of today's machines — from carrying loads across rough terrain to inspecting hard-to-reach infrastructure. In addition to formal programmes, ARIA has facilitated multiple workshops to support knowledge-sharing and collaboration among Creators working within the Smarter Robot Bodies space, covering topics such as legged locomotion, large-scale benchmarking, and industrial robotic dexterity challenges.

Eligibility

The page does not specify detailed eligibility criteria for applicants. Projects are selected and funded through ARIA's Programme Directors, who direct the review, selection, and funding of a portfolio of projects within each programme. Applicants are referred to as 'Creators'. No explicit restrictions on organisation type, geography, sector, or prior-recipient status are stated on this page.

How it's scored

The page does not provide specific evaluation or scoring criteria. Selection and funding decisions are directed by ARIA's Programme Directors, who oversee the review and selection of projects within each programme or opportunity space.

Key requirements

• ✓Focus on robotic body design and hardware innovation for autonomous operation
• ✓Demonstration of capability in complex, dynamic environments
• ✓Check ARIA programme page for specific eligibility, budget tiers, and submission deadlines

Frequently asked questions

How much funding does Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) offer?

Smarter Robot Bodies offers See ARIA programme page.

Who can apply for Smarter Robot Bodies?

Eligibility covers organisations in GB, UK; startup, sme, university, research-institution. See the eligibility criteria above for the full conditions.

Relevant sectors

About this sector

Climate software and data funding supports emissions accounting, climate risk analytics, Earth observation, digital MRV and tools for planners. It is offered as innovation grants, public contracts for data services and support from technology programmes. Buyers generally look for data quality, interoperability and evidence that users rely on the tool.