September 20, 2022

In August, ACTION Innovation Network convened a meeting with regional incubator directors to introduce Mark Parsons, Founder of New Bedford Research and Robotics (NBRR), and learn about architectural plans and programs for the newly forming incubator. The meeting revealed a number of interesting synergies and explored cooperative ways of lending support and working together. Later, a visit to the proposed new site was arranged, with several incubator and Board members attending.

The establishment of NBRR follows Mr. Parsons' creation of Consortium for Research & Robotics, a successful incubator located in New York's Brooklyn Navy Yard. Following that success, Mark decided to move back to his hometown on the SouthCoast and replicate the incubator model in New Bedford, with some improvements. As a maker and designer, Mark has a keen interest in creating, and is building the incubator with a focus on additive manufacturing, industrial robotics, and design to support the sectors of climate-tech, medtech, bluetech, AI/ML, VR/XR/IoT. A strong educational component will be integral to the incubator, with STEAM programs to inspire local students that may not otherwise have exposure and access to these new technologies. NBRR's mission is to provide access to frontier technologies for commercial and social impact, through education, economic empowerment and corporate engagement.

The beginning of Innovation Avenue NBRR's home will be at the location of the former Glaser Glass on Purchase Street in New Bedford. When fully operational, NBRR expects to incubate 10-12 startups at a time, and will host corporate research studios. Groundwork, a co-working space, is just steps away. A major advantage of this site is its close proximity to what will be the terminus of the new South Coast Rail line from Boston.

The long span of street-facing, full height windows of the bay doors allows the site to open to and engage with the New Bedford community, providing inspiration to community youth and innovators alike. Read more about Mark's background and his plans for NBRR here.