The Austin Chamber of Commerce and the Central Texas Regional Center of Innovation and Commercialization (CenTex RCIC) announce that the State of Texas is investing in Agile Planet, Inc. through the Texas Emerging Technology Fund (ETF). Agile Planet, Inc., a cutting edge robotics software company, will receive a $250,000 pre-seed project award for the commercialization of its new technology.

“In tough economic times, it’s more important than ever that government and industry work together to create high-paying jobs here at home and keep Texas on the cutting edge of technology,” said Jack McDonald, Chairman and CEO of Perficient, Inc. and Chairman of the CenTex RCIC. “We’re pleased to announce this investment in Agile Planet as another step in our plan to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in Central Texas and build a leading position in the software industry.”

The global robotics market is predicted to reach $25B by 2010 with expected growth to $65B by 2025. Agile Planet’s robotics software platform product, Kinematix™ solves complex safety and controls problems through intelligent motion and sensor integration. RobotLogix® is Agile Planet’s industrial robot control solution that dramatically reduces lifecycle costs while opening up new markets and applications. Agile Planet’s AgileMedix™ simulation software brings robotic efficiency and precision to image guided radiation therapy and other healthcare-related applications.

“As innovative technologies change the way we live and work, we must find ways to advance our progress by adapting to the challenges raised by these technologies,” said Gov. Perry. “This investment in RobotLogix will help jump start the emerging field of robotics, while enhancing and expanding the Texas’ diverse technology sector.”

Agile Planet, Inc., whose founders are both staff with The University of Texas at Austin, has collaborated with The University of Texas through the McCombs School of Business and the Austin Technology Incubator, while also working closely with Austin Community College’s Chairman for Robotics.

“We are delighted to be chosen as the recipients of this ETF award and excited to be moving the company forward,” said Dr. Chetan Kapoor, President of Agile Planet, Inc. “Our advanced robotics technology will position Agile Planet, Inc. and Austin at the forefront and will drive regional excellence and job creation in robotics.” The ETF grant will allow Agile Planet, Inc. to continue product development and to focus on product marketing and sales as well.

Agile Planet, Inc. was recommended to the Emerging Technology Fund Advisory Committee by the CenTex RCIC after an extensive due diligence process based on multiple criteria including a stringent analyses of the market and financial opportunity, technology potential, management team and economic impact to Texas.

The CenTex RCIC is a virtual center that operates out of the Austin Chamber of Commerce and serves as a catalyst for emerging technology research, development, commercialization and start-up incubation. In an effort to keep Texas globally competitive, the CenTex RCIC focuses on integrating technology development and commercialization in a 15-county region.