Foundry
Seeking Aspiring & Experienced Entrepreneurs
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About the Program
Foundry is a National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) program powered by FedTech. NSIN Foundry is a startup studio that matches cutting-edge Department of Defense (DoD) technologies with teams of entrepreneurs during intensive, 16-week cohorts. Entrepreneurs work closely with lab inventors, mentors, coaches, subject matter experts, and DoD end-users to assess the market viability and commercialization potential of the technologies. Successful teams form new companies, license the technologies, and develop solutions that impact the DoD and the private sector.
Overview
- Free to participate, no hidden costs
- No equity taken
- Access to cutting edge Department of Defense (DoD) technologies developed in government laboratories, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), and University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs)
- Extensive networking and mentorship opportunities
- Successful teams will compete for a total prize pool of $50,000
The Foundry program equipped me to pursue a completely new opportunity: entrepreneurship. We officially organized as a company after the showcase and are currently pursuing development funding to bring our product to the market.
A Deeper Dive
Foundry is a national security-focused startup studio that identifies and evaluates advanced Department of Defense (DoD) technologies developed in government laboratories, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), and University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs). These technologies are then applied to address real-world challenges faced by both the DoD and commercial customers.
Teams of selected applicants (entrepreneurs) collaborate with DoD scientists and technologists to assess the market viability and commercialization potential of these innovations. With extensive training in Lean Startup principles, entrepreneurs are given the opportunity to form new ventures around cutting-edge technologies. At the same time, DoD researchers gain valuable insights into the market potential and development pathways for their technologies.
2024 Technology Focus Areas
Advanced AI and Machine Learning Applications: Transforming defense operations with predictive analytics and autonomous systems.
Augmented Reality Techniques: overlaying digital information onto the real world, optimizing situational awareness and decision-making
Sensor Solutions: collecting and analyzing data from various sources to enhance surveillance, reconnaissance, and strategic decision-making.
About National Security Innovation Network (NSIN)
NSIN is a program office in the U.S. Department of Defense, nested within the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). We are set up to collaborate with a wide variety of innovators to include universities, researchers, students, entrepreneurs and start-ups. We create opportunities for collaboration across communities and connect those that might not traditionally work in national security. Together, we help drive national security innovation and develop technologies that directly support the individuals responsible for protecting our country.
Partners
