Area Development
SVT Robotics, a software company that accelerates the deployment of industrial robotics, will invest $101,400 to expand its operation in Norfolk, Virginia. The project is expected to create 37 jobs.

The company will construct a laboratory to house robotic equipment used to demonstrate its proprietary SOFTBOT Platform’s capabilities for clients and industrial robotic manufacturers.

“We are thrilled by the ongoing efforts from the Commonwealth of Virginia and the City of Norfolk to create an environment that is extremely friendly to tech startups,” said A.K Schultz, CEO and Co-founder of SVT Robotics. “The VJIP jobs grant will make it easier for SVT to create tech jobs right here in Virginia. The ability to recruit the best technical talent is the lifeblood of tech companies and we applaud Virginia’s efforts to create strong tailwinds for firms like SVT.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with the City of Norfolk and the Hampton Roads Alliance to secure the project for Virginia and will support SVT Robotics’ job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

“SVT Robotics’ proprietary software advances the technology industry and creates jobs of the future, and we applaud the company’s vision and success,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “Norfolk has fostered the business and innovation environment needed to propel small tech businesses like SVT forward, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the company and the City in this next phase of growth.”

Launched in 2018 by co-founders A.K. Schultz and Michael Howes, SVT Robotics develops products that make rapid deployment of enterprise robot technology easier. The company’s SOFTBOT Platform eliminates long development cycles and expensive, inflexible custom code, redefining the integrating process, enabling clients to launch complex, multisystem deployments in weeks rather than months or years.

“It has been a privilege for our team to work with SVT Robotics and the City of Norfolk and to watch SVT’s tremendous growth from a 757 Accelerate program graduate to a nationally-recognized robotics software developer,” said Doug Smith, President and CEO of Hampton Roads Alliance. “SVT Robotics has been committed to the Hampton Roads region and has used its considerable expertise to help foster an environment where other tech startups will thrive. We look forward to watching SVT Robotics continue to grow and to helping other innovative companies emerge in the 757.”