The Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge, together with 757 Collab, has initiated the Defense Tech Accelerator Hampton Roads, a significant opportunity for startups to influence the future of national security and establish Hampton Roads as a defense tech hub. The accelerator program, a 12-week venture from August 18 to November 6, 2025, provides startups with $10,000 in non-dilutive funding, personalized mentorship, and a chance to display their solutions to Department of Defense stakeholders. Startups with dual-use technologies, which can serve both commercial and defense needs, are particularly welcome. Applications are open from April 1-30, 2025, with a special call to Hampton Roads innovators to lead this defense tech revolution.

Introduction

By Tim Ryan

Exciting Partnership Announcement

Hey, Innovate Hampton Roads! We’ve got electrifying news straight from the heart of our region’s innovation ecosystem. The Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge, in partnership with 757 Collab, launched the Defense Technology Accelerator—a game-changing opportunity for startups to shape the future of national security while putting Hampton Roads on the map as a defense tech powerhouse. If you’re an early-stage company with big ideas, this is your moment to shine!

Collaborative Efforts

The Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge, a Department of Navy initiative based right here in Hampton Roads, is all about bridging the gap between cutting-edge innovators and the Department of Defense (DoD). They’re focused on accelerating technologies that solve real-world challenges for the Navy and beyond. Meanwhile, 757 Collab, our region’s premier innovation hub, brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors to fuel startup growth and collaboration across the 757. Together, they’re creating a launchpad for startups to scale their solutions and make a national impact.

Details of the Accelerator Program

So, what’s a startup accelerator? Think of it as a turbo boost for your company—a 12-week program (running from August 18 to November 6, 2025) designed to help early-stage businesses validate, refine, and scale their tech. This hybrid program includes in-person sessions in Norfolk, VA, $10,000 in non-dilutive funding per company, and a Demo Week to showcase your solutions to DoD stakeholders. With only 6-10 companies selected, you’ll get personalized mentorship and unparalleled access to government leaders.

Focus Areas and Opportunities

The accelerator is seeking startups with dual-use technologies—think solutions that can serve both commercial markets and defense needs—in areas like Unmanned Surface Vehicles, Multi-Domain Targeting, Electromagnetic Spectrum Monitoring, Decision Advantage, Expeditionary Mine Countermeasures, and Autonomous Network Management. Backed by heavyweights like U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Fourth Fleet, NIWDC, NSWC Carderock, NSWC Dahlgren Dam Neck Activity, and Marine Corps Systems Command Combat Support Services, this program is your chance to solve critical national security challenges.

Application Details

Applications are open from April 1-30, 2025, and we’re calling on Hampton Roads innovators to step up! While we expect applicants from across the country, we want our local talent to lead the charge. Ready to make history? Apply now at this link and join the defense tech revolution. Let’s show the world what Hampton Roads innovation can do!

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Question & Answer

What is the Defense Tech Accelerator Hampton Roads?

The Defense Tech Accelerator Hampton Roads is a 12-week program initiated by the Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge and 757 Collab to provide startups with funding, mentorship, and an opportunity to showcase their solutions to Department of Defense stakeholders.

When does the accelerator program take place?

The accelerator program runs from August 18 to November 6, 2025, spanning a 12-week period.

What type of startups are particularly welcome in this accelerator program?

Startups with dual-use technologies, which can serve both commercial and defense needs, are particularly welcome in this accelerator program.

When are applications open for the Defense Tech Accelerator Hampton Roads?

Applications are open from April 1-30, 2025, providing a window for startups to apply to be part of this program.

How can interested startups apply for the accelerator program?

Interested startups can apply for the accelerator program by visiting the provided link and submitting their applications within the specified timeframe.