.avif)
Crucible Accelerator
.avif)
.webp)
About the Program
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.
Program Overview
Program Length: 10 Weeks
Program Dates: November 6, 2025 - February 6, 2026
Format: Virtual, with one optional in-person Innovation Summit in Southern California
Application Deadline: October 24, 2025
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Program Highlights
- NavalX Partnership: Leverage the resources and network of NavalX and its Inland Empire Tech Bridge to tackle key challenges
- Focus Areas: Address real-world challenges identified by NavalX experts
- No cost and no equity: Full program support with zero financial commitment from participants
- Mentorship and Industry Guidance: Access military experts and industry leaders through NavalX, the Tech Bridge Network, and FedTech
- Comprehensive Support: Receive tailored educational programming and strategic exposure designed to accelerate your startup
Who should apply?
- This program is open to startups based in the United States with TRL 4-6 technologies supporting one or more of the technology focus areas.
Alumni Highlights
- Cohort alumni have pilots with Naval Surface Warfare Centers, Army, Air Force, National Guard, and municipal governments. They have proof of concept with Fortune 500 companies and have started work with international defense agencies.
- 2025 Accelerator winner Khasm Labs took home $75,000 in funding to support their KTEN comms system. Khasm has since been selected for Crucible Afterburner and is working with other startups and a prime integrator to provide counter-UAS solutions for Navy bases.
The support provided by the FedTech Crucible Accelerator staff, mentors, and programming were crucial in growing our company’s ability to understand and connect with the DoD and Navy end users. We have been able to discover and pivot towards an even larger combined defense and dual-use opportunity because of the training and support offered by this program.
A Deeper Dive
The Crucible Accelerator, powered by NavalX Inland Empire Tech Bridge, is built to drive innovation and scale startups that are ready to solve pressing challenges within and beyond the defense sector. Drawing inspiration from the U.S. Marines’ Crucible challenge, this program channels the resilience, critical thinking, and determination of military leaders into supporting entrepreneurs.
Running from November 2025 to February 2026, the 10-week accelerator is designed to connect startups with NavalX’s expansive network of experts, mentors, and resources.
Whether you’re looking to refine your go-to-market strategy, scale cutting-edge technologies, or gain exposure to new markets, the Crucible Accelerator will give you the tools, guidance, and connections you need to succeed. Apply today and become part of a growing ecosystem of innovators solving real-world challenges alongside NavalX and the Inland Empire Tech Bridge.
Challenge Sets:
Crucible Accelerator focuses on validated needs from the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Department of Defense. We are looking for technology on the cutting edge that can make a difference for our National Security. Specific focus areas include:
- Naval:
- Data Analytics and Visualization
- Advanced Measurement and Metrology
- Enhanced Telecommunications, Information Sharing, and Networks
- Autonomous Systems and Robotics
- Regional:
- Supply Chain and Logistics
- Directed Energy Technologies
- Energy Dominance
- Water Technologies, Products, and Platforms
- Injury Prevention and Safety
- Agricultural, Animal By Product Utilization
About the NavalX Tech Bridge Network
Regional Tech Bridges help Naval leaders address operational challenges with solutions that can scale globally. This connected network of innovation hubs enhances collaboration between Naval Labs, industry, academia, and other military organizations.
When NavalX takes on a new effort, the Tech Bridges serve as technology scouts, local networking hubs, and connection points to Naval Warfare Centers and Labs to make sure the best possible technology is brought to the table for consideration. These strategically located teams offer a more easily accessible way for the Department of the Navy to foster collaboration, build productive partnerships, and speed delivery of solutions to sailors and Marines. Tech Bridges are an essential link between Naval technologists and local startup ecosystems across the country — and around the world.
Partners
