The NSIN Defense Innovation Accelerator (DIA) matches breakthrough Department of Defense (DoD) lab technology with teams of entrepreneurs to solve the real-world problems of DoD and commercial customers. Entrepreneurs work with DoD lab inventors, mentors and subject matter experts from the Government and private sectors, and world class instructors to assess the market viability and the potential to commercialize DoD lab technologies.
DIA is an intensive 4-month cohort-based program executed in two phases: customer discovery and early company formation. Successful teams have gone on to form companies, license the technology from the labs and pursue various funding opportunities.
The NSIN Defense Innovation Accelerator (DIA) matches breakthrough Department of Defense (DoD) lab technology with teams of entrepreneurs to solve the real-world problems of DoD and commercial customers. Entrepreneurs work with DoD lab inventors, mentors and subject matter experts from the Government and private sectors, and world class instructors to assess the market viability and the potential to commercialize DoD lab technologies.
DIA is an intensive 4-month cohort-based program executed in two phases: customer discovery and early company formation. Successful teams have gone on to form companies, license the technology from the labs and pursue various funding opportunities.
FedTech Startup Studio
The FedTech Startup Studio was built on the notion that incredible technology is created in our federal labs, universities and corporations and most of it never has a chance to make it to customers, whether they are government or commercial. We also believe that entrepreneurship is a skill and experience that is desired but many individuals are constrained by their personal, professional or mental barriers.
The FedTech Startup Studio solves both of these problems by finding hidden technological gems in organizations across the US and pairing them with people who are employed full-time but would like to start a new venture and experience entrepreneurship in a low-risk environment.
Once a team is formed around cutting-edge technology, entrepreneurs will interview customers and develop a path to market. Over several weeks, entrepreneurs work with other successful entrepreneurs, partners, investors, mentors, and instructors every step of the way.
The program concludes with “Pitch Day,” where teams present the results of their hard work to the startup community. Afterwards, teams are invited to continue on their journey and build their own venture.
Startup Studio Timeline
Acceptance email is received!
Receive list of technology that will be included in the cohort. Submit your preferences to be paired with a technology that interests you.
Receive notification of technology/inventor, entrepreneur and mentor pairings.
Kickoff intro call with teams
In-person kickoff weekend in DC. Team formation building, experiential learning and fun will be had!
Pitch Day! Showcase your team and make a decision on whether to start a company or leave with a new world of knowledge and a much improved network.
Weekly lean startup, funding, IP and related lectures & breakout group discussions on progress. This will last 8-10 weeks.
Continue your journey with us!
Entrepreneurs
Interested in becoming an entrepreneur through our flagship Startup Studio? Whether you are brand new to the venture world or have launched your own startup in the past the Startup Studio can prove to be an invaluable experience and possibly the first step in launching your own venture. Start your journey and apply now!
Inventors & Labs
Our startup studio could be the perfect opportunity to get your technology from the laboratory to the market. If you are interested in having your technology validated apply now!
Partners
Whether it’s as a mentor to our entrepreneurs, an advisor, or a sponsor, there are a number of opportunities to play a role in the Startup Studio. Please introduce yourself if you want to get involved!