Six high-potential startups to compete in Europe’s Best Robotics Startup Challenge at automatica 2025
The finalists are now confirmed for this year’s Europe’s Best Robotics Startup Challenge, taking place at automatica in Munich on June 25th.
Six of the most promising robotics startups in Europe will pitch their innovative solutions live on stage at the renowned Startup Arena powered by FundingBox, competing for the coveted title and a €5,000 prize.
Hosted by Invest in Odense and sponsored by Odense Robotics – Denmark’s national cluster for robotics, drones, and automation – the challenge celebrates excellence in robotics innovation. It serves as a launchpad for early-stage companies and draws attention from leading investors, corporates, and stakeholders across the continent, making it a key event for shaping the future of robotics in Europe.
Meet the six finalists
- Scurid
- XiniX AI
- Aeriu
- RESONIKS
- AEON Robotics
- Meili Robotics
A strong program hosted by industry leaders
This year’s event will be hosted by Lukas Ziegler, founder of a leading robotics media platform and Venture Partner at ffVC. With a background in deep-tech startups, venture capital, and academic work in Industry 4.0, Lukas brings valuable insight to the stage and an engaged community of over 250,000 robotics enthusiasts worldwide.
The pitch competition will be judged by an esteemed panel with deep domain expertise:
- Eerik Paasikivi, co-founder of Kvanted and experienced industrial tech investor.
- Wendy Cheng, General Partner at Wise Guys New Frontier Fund and named one of the “50 Women in Robotics You Need to Know About”.
- Eran Rosenberg, NVIDIA Inception Partner Manager and expert in AI-driven robotics solutions.
- Troels Oliver Vilms Pedersen, co-creator of the Odense Robotics Startup Fund and former robotics entrepreneur.
“What sets this year’s finalists apart is a shared ability to combine deep technical innovation with a clear path to market. From soft robots that enhance inspection safety to AI-powered warehouse and logistics automation, these startups are driving meaningful impact where it matters. We can’t wait to hear their pitches and crown the winner,”
The full program includes keynotes, insights from the International Federation of Robotics, and a dedicated spotlight on Denmark’s leading robotics ecosystem presented by Invest in Odense and Odense Robotics.
Networking and celebration at the Odense Afterparty powered by Odense Robotics
Following the competition, the Odense Afterparty will take place from 16:00 to 18:00 at the Startup Arena. This informal gathering offers a valuable networking opportunity for robotics professionals, founders, and investors to exchange ideas, connect, and celebrate the vibrant robotics community in Europe.
About automatica – the world’s leading trade fair for smart automation and robotics
automatica brings together all key technologies within automation and robotics in the technology hub of Munich and serves as a meeting point for industry, research, and political decision-makers.
The trade fair offers a comprehensive overview of developments, trends, and solutions, providing direction and investment security in a time of change – all with the aim of turning the vision of autonomous production into reality.
The event takes place from June 24–27.
Learn more: Europe´s Best Robotics Startup Challenge 2025 – Invest in Odense
Further information
Casper Rundager
Investment manager - Robotics & drones
With a deep passion for international trade and commercial growth, I thrive helping foreign companies in the robotics, drone, tech and automation industry establish and grow their business in Odense. My background is within product management and business development in global software and automation companies, and having lived and worked abroad myself, I know the value of networks and collaboration. I look very much forward to helping you take the next step.
+45 4245 8980
cspru@odense.dk
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Martyna Waliszewska
Investment Manager - Investments
An engineer by trade, Odenseaner by heart. My focus lies within identifying investor-ready cases, developing our investor network of business angels, venture capital, and corporate venture capital, and bridging the investment gap. Ultimately, we are creating growth through investments in the robotics, drones, and automation industries.
+45 6115 3259
marwa@odense.dk
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Mette Falk
Marketing Manager - Invest in Odense
As the Marketing Manager for Invest in Odense, I am passionate about showcasing the strengths and potential our city holds. With a background steeped in marketing and a deep affection for the city of Odense, I am excited to lead initiatives that position Odense as a global hub within our specific strongholds.
+45 2368 8982
mefal@odense.dk
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