By Tim Ryan

Hey, Innovate Hampton Roads community! Buckle up, because the entrepreneurial landscape in our region just got a major boost. 757 Collab, our region’s powerhouse for startup innovation, has teamed up with the NavalX Mid-Atlantic Tech Bridge to launch the Defense Technology Accelerator (DTA)—a game-changing 11-week program kicking off August 25–29, 2025, right here in Norfolk, VA. This isn’t just another accelerator; it’s a launchpad for early-stage startups to break into the Department of Defense (DoD) ecosystem, fast-tracking dual-use technologies that serve both commercial markets and national security needs. Here’s why this matters for you and our vibrant Hampton Roads innovation scene.

The DTA is designed to propel 10–12 high-potential startups into the big leagues. With over 150 applications pouring in from across the nation and beyond, the competition was fierce, and the selected cohort—set to be announced by late July—will receive $10,000 in non-dilutive funding to fuel their journey. These startups will focus on six critical technology areas identified by local Naval Commands, from advanced manufacturing to cyber technologies (check out the full list here). The program offers hands-on mentorship, direct access to DoD stakeholders, and guidance on navigating federal procurement pathways—resources that can transform a startup’s trajectory.

What’s in it for our community? The DTA isn’t just for the chosen few. Public events like the “Meet the Cohort” pitch showcase during the in-person kickoff week and the tech demonstrations in early November will open doors for local entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to connect with cutting-edge startups and DoD leaders. These events, held in Norfolk, will spotlight Hampton Roads as a hub for defense innovation, drawing national attention to our ecosystem. Plus, 757 Collab’s track record—raising over $200 million for startups with zero equity taken—proves they’re all about empowering founders, not gatekeeping success.

Since its inception in 2015, 757 Collab has been a cornerstone of our region’s entrepreneurial growth, uniting 757 Angels, 757 Accelerate, 757 Startup Studios, and now 757 Defend to create a holistic ecosystem. From deploying $95 million in capital to supporting underrepresented founders (60% of participants), they’ve shown that Hampton Roads can compete on a national stage. The DTA builds on this legacy, leveraging partnerships with NavalX and local economic development allies to position our region as a leader in dual-use innovation.

For Hampton Roads entrepreneurs, this is your moment. Whether you’re a startup founder eyeing DoD contracts, an investor seeking the next big thing, or a community member passionate about innovation, the DTA offers a front-row seat to the future. Join us at the public events, connect with the cohort, and let’s keep pushing Hampton Roads forward as a beacon of entrepreneurial excellence.

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