Cambridge Automation & Robotics BR+E Final Report: A Data-Driven Roadmap for Economic Development
The City of Cambridge’s Automation and Robotics Business Retention & Expansion (BR+E) Final Report is a strategic, visually compelling, and highly actionable 30-page publication designed to position the City as a national leader in advanced manufacturing innovation. Developed with input from 20 automation and robotics companies through structured interviews conducted in late 2024 and early 2025, the publication represents a milestone in Cambridge’s data-informed approach to economic development.
The purpose of the publication was twofold: (1) to summarize and present sector-specific data to inform internal policy and investment decisions, and (2) to serve as an external-facing marketing and promotional tool for investors, businesses, and strategic partners interested in Cambridge’s high-potential automation ecosystem. This report directly supports business retention, investment attraction, workforce alignment, and export readiness, core pillars of the City’s Economic Development Action Plan.
Structured around 14 core business themes including workforce, supply chain, sustainability, innovation, market competition, and exporting, the publication provides a deep understanding of the automation and robotics landscape in Cambridge. Content is enriched by data visualizations, charts, direct business quotes, and infographics that enhance usability across multiple audiences.
What makes this publication distinct is its combined role as a policy instrument and investment attraction piece. Internally, the report informs decision-making around workforce programming, business collaboration, and branding efforts. Externally, it helps position Cambridge as a forward-thinking, collaborative, and industry-aligned community. Stakeholders, including business leaders, post-secondary institutions, government agencies will use the document to identify opportunities for joint action, access funding programs, and plan for growth.
The report revealed both strengths and vulnerabilities in the sector. For example, 70% of businesses cited difficulty hiring for specialized technical roles, and 60% identified AI as a key future disruptor. Half of the firms reported strong or very strong market positions, yet concerns around U.S. trade barriers and inconsistent export support signaled a need for coordinated branding and advocacy. The report doesn’t stop at identifying gaps, it speaks to clear recommendations, many of which will be implemented in Phase 2 of the BR+E program.
The publication’s target audience includes small and large businesses, academic institutions, industry associations, and prospective investors in automation and robotics. The document was professionally designed and structured for easy digital and print use, with scalable components that can be repurposed for presentations, trade missions, and grant proposals.
Sustainability is embedded throughout the report, both in form and content. Key sections highlight how local firms are adopting energy-saving technologies, aligning with clean tech mandates, and addressing circular economy goals.
This publication exemplifies how municipalities can transform qualitative business engagement into a high-impact communications and planning resource, one that reflects the voice of industry, supports economic sustainability, and invites ongoing partnership.
