By Tim Ryan
At Innovate Hampton Roads, we’re not just telling the story of our region’s entrepreneurial spirit—we’re writing its next chapter. As the proud stewards of the REaKTOR Technology Innovation Center on behalf of the City of Hampton, we’re thrilled to share a recent milestone that underscores why Hampton Roads, Virginia, is fast becoming a global hub for innovation. When Mallory Tuttle and Chelsea Jenkins Olivieri from Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) visited REaKTOR, they didn’t just see a facility—they witnessed a thriving ecosystem where bold ideas are transforming industries and uplifting our communities. Here’s why this matters for you, the innovators, entrepreneurs, and visionaries of Hampton Roads.
Our region’s history is one of grit and ingenuity, from its naval heritage to its growing reputation as a tech powerhouse. Through REaKTOR, Innovate Hampton Roads is fueling this legacy by empowering startups to solve big problems in aerospace, sustainability, advanced manufacturing, and beyond. During the visit, our guests met with a dynamic group of REaKTOR-based founders who embody the innovative spirit of our region.
Consider Tidal Flight, named Startup to Watch at 757 TechNite, which is developing Polaris, a hybrid-electric amphibious aircraft with a $1.25M SBIR Direct to Phase II contract from AFWERX. Their work is paving the way for sustainable aviation and coastal mobility—perfect for our water-rich region. HerculE-Q is engineering wireless charging platforms for e-bikes and e-scooters, making urban transportation greener. MechaStructure is revolutionizing construction with modular robotics platforms, boosting efficiency for local industries. VroomBrick, founded by former Naval Officer Leland Remias, is disrupting real estate with a digital platform that makes home buying faster and fairer—a game-changer for our growing communities. Psionic, named Emerging Company of the Year at 757 TechNite, is leading in precision sensing with Doppler LiDAR for autonomous vehicles and lunar landings. Pancopia is adapting NASA-designed water recycling systems for agriculture and humanitarian needs, while Good Steward is streamlining workforce development for individuals with disabilities through their Colab.Set.Go platform.
These startups aren’t just building businesses—they’re building Hampton Roads’ future. As Innovate Hampton Roads, we manage REaKTOR to provide the tools you need to succeed: free advisory support for grants, business plans, and legal needs; connections to over 250 expert researchers; and state-of-the-art office and lab spaces in Hampton. Our collaboration with Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center strengthens this mission, bridging academic research with real-world impact to create a vibrant innovation corridor across the Commonwealth.
Why should you care? Because Hampton Roads is your launchpad to turn ideas into reality. Whether you’re a pre-series A startup or an entrepreneur with a big vision, Innovate Hampton Roads and REaKTOR are here to help you validate, fund, and scale your dream. Our collaboration with Virginia Tech and partners like the National Institute of Aerospace connects you to the resources, funding, and networks you need to thrive.
Join us in shaping the future of Hampton Roads. Visit reaktor757.org to learn how Innovate Hampton Roads and REaKTOR can propel your startup to new heights. Let’s make our region the epicenter of the next global breakthrough—together.
Don’t miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads’ innovation and business community. https://bit.ly/twi757newsletter
