The Defense Innovation Unit has launched a new challenge to identify and support the development of new technologies that address the Department of Defense’s critical needs.
DIU said Wednesday U.S. startups founded by students, faculty, staff and recent graduates can participate in the Dual-Use University Accelerator Challenge, which will serve as the entry point to a 12-week accelerator program designed to improve innovators’ readiness for DOD market engagement.
DIU will hold an “Ask Me Anything” session on June 10 and accept applications for the challenge through June 25.
University Accelerator Challenge’s Focus Areas
The key focus areas for the challenge include technology platforms aligned with DOD mission needs in energy, autonomy, artificial intelligence, cyber/telecommunications, emerging technology, human systems and space.
The challenge is also interested in commercial dual-use technologies that address strategic gaps in defense capabilities as well as innovations with potential for scalability, operational impact and cost-effectiveness.
A team of subject matter experts will select up to 15 finalists for the accelerator program. Finalists will get a share of the $500,000 in prize awards, DOD engagement opportunities, tailored mentorship and funding support to help scale their tech platforms for defense applications.
Competition’s Required Technical Capabilities
The selected candidates should demonstrate feasibility for rapid prototyping and field testing; integration of innovative technologies addressing DOD mission needs; and readiness to adapt platforms based on stakeholder feedback.
Scalability for large-scale implementation and demonstrated ability to engage with DOD mission partners are among the desired capabilities.
Applications will be evaluated based on technical merit; team qualifications; commercial viability; alignment with DOD needs; and presentation quality.
DIU will announce the finalists on July 25. The accelerator program will kick off in August and run through October.
