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About Crucible Ignitor
Funded by the NavalX Inland Empire Tech Bridge, powered by FedTech, Crucible Ignitor is a startup studio that matches federal or university created technologies with entrepreneur teams to promote dual-use technology commercialization. Now entering its third year, successful teams form new companies, license technologies, and develop solutions that can impact government or private markets. Entrepreneurs work closely with inventors, technology transfer, subject matter experts, and advisors.
Don’t miss these interactive sessions to learn more about how you can launch a technology-focused venture by leveraging federal and university lab-created technology.
Application Deadline: September 26, 2025
Start Date: October 7, 2025
Program Length: 15 Weeks
Program Highlights
*Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
- Virtual, with one optional in-person Innovation Summit in Southern California
- No fees to participate and no equity taken
- Direct access to cutting-edge federal- or lab-created technologies selected for national security relevance and commercialization potential
- Mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs, executives, and technologists
- Chance to license your technology and launch a spinout company
- Eligibility to compete for prizes to support your newly-launched startup
- Travel stipend provided to attend the optional in-person Innovation Summit in Southern California
Program Length: Total of ~20 hours per week per entrepreneur from October 2025 through February 2026. Live sessions are 1-1.5 hours long, and the remainder is spent working with teams at mutually agreed-upon times.
Who Should Apply?: We are seeking diverse skill sets and backgrounds such as technologists, business people, spokespeople, operations specialists, and creative thinkers from across the United States. Previous founders and first-time founders are encouraged to apply. The program is designed to allow for individuals who are working full-time.
*Citizenship Requirements: The program is open to citizens of the United States of America (US). If you are a U.S. permanent Resident, green card holder, or have citizenship-related questions, please contact crucible@fedtech.io before completing an application.
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 18 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.
