Ohio defense accelerator seeks dual-use technology companies
Ohio’s Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub is accepting applications for a new dual-use technology accelerator focused on edge AI, autonomy, advanced sensors, resilient communications and other tools built for contested environments. Applications close July 31.
The Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Ohio has opened applications for a new accelerator aimed at non-traditional defense companies building dual-use technologies, those with both commercial and military applications, for contested, degraded or operationally limited environments.
Powered by Fuse Ventures, a dual-use innovation platform, the program is accepting applications through July 31. The accelerator is scheduled to run from mid-September through mid-November.
Organizers are targeting companies working in edge artificial intelligence (AI), autonomy, advanced sensors, alternate positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), resilient communications, and electronic warfare. While the accelerator carries a substantial in-person component in Columbus, the program is open to companies from anywhere, according to Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Ohio.
Selected companies will gain access to mentors with defense and commercial experience, connections across industry, government, and investors, and resources intended to accelerate the path to commercialization. OnRamp Hub: Ohio noted that the program is being run with coordination from U.S. European Command (EUCOM), U.S. Air Forces Central (AFCENT), the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
OnRamp Hub: Ohio functions as the primary nexus for the regional ecosystem in a national network powered by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the Department of War arm focused on moving commercial technology into military use. Based in Columbus, OnRamp Hub: Ohio works to connect Ohio companies, universities, and government partners with defense opportunities.
Two counterpart Defense Innovator OnRamp Hubs are running accelerators on a similar timeline. OnRamp Hub: Kansas is focused on advanced manufacturing, while OnRamp Hub: Arizona's program is technology agnostic.
Both carry the same in-person requirements in their respective states, and companies interested in either can apply through the same portal.
Companies can apply through Fuse Ventures at fuseventures.com/accelerator until July 31.
