In the ever-evolving landscape of robotics and artificial intelligence, one name stands out as a beacon of innovation, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to advancing the field: Silicon Valley Robotics (SVR). At the helm of this influential non-profit industry group is Andra Keay, a visionary leader whose passion for commercializing socially positive robotics and AI has propelled SVR to the forefront of the global robotics community.

As the Managing Director of Silicon Valley Robotics, Keay has played a pivotal role in fostering an ecosystem that supports innovation and the commercialization of robotics technologies. SVR, headquartered in the heart of Silicon Valley, is the largest cluster of robotics and AI technology innovation and investment in the world. It serves as a hub for over 750 robotics companies, representing a staggering 50% of all venture capital-funded companies in the United States and a remarkable 25% of global venture capital funding in the field.

Keay's leadership extends beyond her role at SVR. She is the founder of several groundbreaking initiatives, including the Robot Launch global startup competition, the Robot Garden makerspace, and the Women in Robotics organization. Her multifaceted approach to empowering the robotics community is a testament to her commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment that nurtures innovation from all corners.

As a Visiting Scholar at the CITRIS & the Banatao Institute People and Robots Lab at UC Berkeley, and the Vice President of Industrial Activities for IEEE's Robotics and Automation Society, Keay bridges the gap between academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. Her unique perspective and deep understanding of the robotics landscape have made her a sought-after mentor, investor, and advisor to startups, accelerators, and think tanks alike.

Under Keay's guidance, Silicon Valley Robotics has become a driving force in shaping the future of robotics and AI. The organization's unwavering support for its stakeholders and startups has played a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of industry leaders and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of robotics.

Moreover, Keay's influence extends beyond the boundaries of Silicon Valley. As a founding member of the United States Alliance of Robotics Clusters (USARC), she has been instrumental in fostering greater collaboration and communication among robotics clusters across the nation. The USARC, comprising regional non-profit associations such as MassRobotics, Pittsburgh Robotics, and Silicon Valley Robotics, serves as a platform for amplifying the voices of stakeholders and advocating for the growth and success of the US robotics and AI industry.

As the world grapples with pressing issues such as sustainability, revitalization of local industry, and economic growth, Keay and Silicon Valley Robotics have emerged as champions of leveraging robotics, automation, and AI to provide key solutions. Their tireless efforts to engage with industry and policy partners at local and national levels have positioned them as thought leaders in shaping the future of these transformative technologies.

The impact of Silicon Valley Robotics and Andra Keay's leadership extends far beyond the confines of the region they call home. Their unwavering commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and the ethical development of robotics and AI has inspired a global movement, paving the way for a future where humans and machines coexist harmoniously, driving progress and unlocking new frontiers of possibility.