Accelerators

Application open

Crucible Accelerator

Crucible Accelerator, in partnership with the NavalX Inland Empire Tech Bridge, is a no-cost, no-equity program designed to accelerate the growth of startups from the United States. Drawing inspiration from the determination and resilience demonstrated in the U.S. Marines' Crucible challenge, this 10-week program offers entrepreneurs mentorship, resources, and the chance to cultivate strategic partnerships in the Department of Defense ecosystem. Crucible Accelerator aims to propel businesses to the next level and enable them to tackle real-world challenges.

Application open

Crucible Afterburner

Crucible Afterburner, powered by NavalX's Northwest Tech Bridge in partnership with FedTech, offers customized support and advisory services for growth-stage ventures aiming to transition their technologies into the Department of Defense (DoD). Targeting companies with high TRL (6-9), this program provides a comprehensive pathway to DoD acquisition through tailored market intelligence, expert advisory services, and strategic matchmaking with prime partners.

Application open

Homeland Security ScaleUp

ScaleUp, sponsored by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate’s (S&T) Technology Transfer and Commercialization Branch, is an intensive accelerator program designed to match early-stage ventures with DHS technologies, fostering innovation and commercialization.

Application open

Montgomery County, MD Technology Innovation Fund and Montgomery County, MD Founders Fund

The Montgomery County, MD Technology Innovation and Founders Funds, established through Resolution 20-491 on May 7, 2024, were enacted to strengthen economic development by providing critical funding for early-stage high-tech companies and small businesses. These programs aim to address long-standing funding disparities that have historically hindered their growth potential.