Colorado Gov. Polis and the Global Business Development Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) announced that Scythe Robotics, a producer of advanced, commercial-grade autonomous solutions for the landscape industry, has selected Longmont, Colorado for expansion. The company has expanded its Boulder County headquarters and manufacturing facility to meet growing demand for its all electric, fully autonomous commercial mower.
"Colorado is leading the nation in the industries of tomorrow and we are thrilled to see Scythe Robotics expand in Colorado, creating 394 good-paying jobs and helping to pioneer the future of robotics. Colorado’s highly educated workforce, pro-business environment, and commitment to innovation make us the best place to live, work, and do business,” said Governor Polis.
Scythe Robotics selected Longmont for expansion because of its proximity to top universities, a vibrant and expanding robotics community, and the state’s outdoor recreation lifestyle. At 28,000 square feet, the expanded facility is more than double the original size. A unidirectional production line will increase output of the company’s mowers while prioritizing comfort and productivity for the company’s technicians.
“The opening of our state-of-the-art robotics facility accelerates our ability to deliver high-quality, game-changing machines to our customers for the upcoming mowing season,” said Jack Morrison, Co-founder and CEO of Scythe. “We are proud that our growth is generating meaningful job opportunities within Colorado's burgeoning cleantech sector and advancing our state’s culture of collaboration and creativity. Boulder County’s diverse talent pool and inspiring landscape make it the ideal place for Scythe to innovate and lead the way in robotics.”
In Longmont, Scythe Robotics expects to create 394 net new jobs at an average annual wage of $116,881, which is 157 per cent of the average annual wage in Boulder County. The positions will include engineers, manufacturers, and roles in sales and operations.
"Colorado ranks fifth in the nation as a cleantech hub, and companies like Scythe Robotics play an important role in advancing this key industry. We are pleased to see the company expand in Longmont, creating new good-paying jobs while contributing to our state’s ongoing leadership in cleantech,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman.
“Colorado is known for its startup ecosystem and knowledge-based economy. This exciting addition to our robotics sector will boost innovation and design, advancing Colorado’s position as a developer of leading edge technologies in the clean tech space,” said Michelle Hadwiger, OEDIT’s Director of Global Business Development.
The Colorado Economic Development Commission approved up to $372,000 in a performance-based Strategic Fund Job Growth Incentive for the company at $6,500 per net new job over a five-year period. These incentives are contingent upon Scythe Robotics, referred to as Project Eldorado throughout the OEDIT review process, meeting net new job creation and salary requirements.
“Scythe Robotics' expansion in Longmont underscores Colorado as a premier destination for businesses driving technological advancement. By adding nearly 400 skilled positions, Scythe is helping to fuel economic growth and opportunity in our region. This expansion reaffirms Colorado's position as a leader in the cleantech industry and highlights our commitment to fostering a diverse, thriving workforce,” said Metro Denver EDC President, Raymond H. Gonzales.
“The Longmont Economic Development Partnership is thrilled to celebrate Scythe Robotics’ expanded headquarters facility and manufacturing line in Longmont,” said Erin Fosdick, CEO & President of Longmont Economic Development Partnership. “Their sustainable, reliable, and highly advanced robots are revolutionizing landscaping and we are proud they choose to call Longmont home!
In addition to Colorado, Scythe Robotics considered Florida and Texas for expansion. The company currently has 80 employees, 60 of whom are in Colorado.