Motiv Space Systems expands

The City of Pasadena is gaining increased recognition as California’s deep tech hub with another high-profile business partner expanding its local footprint. Motiv Space Systems celebrated the grand opening of its newest location on North Rosemead Boulevard in Pasadena, growing from its existing headquarters on North Halstead Street.

Motiv’s expansion is an important milestone for Pasadena business, which continues to experience a trend of deep tech and science related companies relocating to Pasadena and expanding existing operations. Home to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), Pasadena is being increasingly recognized as an ideal location for deep tech companies looking to grow and attract talent and partnerships.

“In Motiv’s tenth year, we are proud to be opening our newest facility. After acquiring the property in 2021, Motiv embarked on extensive renovations to turn it into a state-of-the-art space electronics and robotics facility,” Chris Theyer, CEO of Motiv Space Systems said. “This investment demonstrates Motiv’s continued commitment to technology development and economic growth in the city of Pasadena.”

Among Motiv’s most recognizable claims to fame is its robotic arm currently in use on the Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover. Close proximity to Caltech and JPL provides businesses like Motiv with access to research and collaboration opportunities. A thriving tech ecosystem, supportive local government, and strategic zoning changes accommodating high-tech industries are among the most important factors attracting the deep tech sector to the City of Roses.

“Pasadena continues to evolve and grow as a deep tech hub, exemplified by Motiv Space Systems’ exciting expansion. With JPL and Caltech nearby, our city offers unmatched access to cutting-edge research and collaboration," said David Klug, Pasadena’s Director of Economic Development. City of Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo added, “We’re excited to see companies like Motiv making significant investments in our city, reinforcing that Pasadena is the ideal place for tech companies to thrive.”

This trend isn’t only helped by the unique advantages and incentives that the City of Pasadena offers to these businesses but also by the presence of Caltech and JPL, which has created a robust workforce of highly trained engineers and scientists across the city.

The City of Pasadena is committed to continuing this trend, creating a deep tech and science hub in one of California’s most coveted communities. The city’s economic development team is focused each day on increasing Pasadena’s visibility in this fast-growing sector, highlighting related initiatives and partnerships that are aimed at continuing to attract technology and science-focused businesses.