About us
Unlocking Innovation in Robotics and Automation
The North of England Robotics Innovation Centre (NERIC) is a specialist hub at the University of Salford, designed to help small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) harness the potential of robotics, automation and digital technologies.
Backed by a £16 million investment—supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Research England and the University of Salford—NERIC provides the tools, expertise and space for high-growth SMEs to reduce the risks
of innovation and accelerate their automation journey.
We help businesses explore, design, test and adopt advanced technologies—whether they’re tackling rising costs, staff shortages or process inefficiencies.
What We Offer
- Access to cutting-edge technology, including industrial and collaborative robots and autonomous mobile robots.
- Specialist laboratories and testing spaces designed with SME use cases in mind.
- Innovation support from concept development to product validation.
- Expertise across key sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, infrastructure, smart cities and net zero technologies.
Robotics and automation are especially valuable for tasks that are dull, dirty, dangerous, dear (£) or difficult. If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, get in touch!
Get in touch
Want to find out more about NERIC?