Forge Institute Announces Walter Burgess as Entrepreneur-in-Residence for Phoenix Xcelerator Program
Walter Burgess, 4th generation entrepreneur, to lead Forge’s Phoenix Xcelerator program
The Forge Institute proudly announces Walter Burgess as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence for the Phoenix Xcelerator Program. With over 28 years of leadership in technology and innovation, Walter brings unparalleled insight to this flagship initiative, which empowers early-stage entrepreneurs and strengthens the national defense ecosystem. As Co-CEO and CTO of Power Technology, Inc., he has driven innovation in photonics and defense manufacturing. As former Chairman of the Arkansas Science & Technology Board he spearheaded over $10 million in entrepreneurial support, and helped create more than 200 high-paying jobs. A dedicated mentor, he founded the Arkansas Photonics Industry Alliance and serves on advisory boards for top laser and optical publications. His unique blend of technical knowledge and business acumen will be a vital resource for Phoenix Xcelerator participants, equipping them to develop transformative solutions for defense technology.
“As Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Walter Burgess brings a wealth of experience, and his passion for innovation make him an invaluable asset to the Phoenix Xcelerator,” said Lee Watson, Chairman & CEO. “His leadership will inspire and guide our entrepreneurs as they navigate the complexities of defense innovation, product development, and bring transformative solutions to market.”
The Phoenix Xcelerator, a no-cost, no-equity accelerator program, equips promising entrepreneurs with mentorship, resources, and a structured curriculum to address pressing challenges in defense and aerospace. Through partnerships with defense contractors, industry leaders, and innovative startups, the program supports ventures in key areas such as, but not limited to, Defense Manufacturing, Photonics, and Advanced Mobility/Drone/Counter-Drone.
Entrepreneurs are supported through every stage of their journey, from validating business models and crafting compelling capability statements to developing and testing prototypes. The program’s emphasis on dual-use technologies ensures that solutions are scalable across both civilian and military markets, creating broader economic opportunities while advancing national defense readiness.
By fostering collaboration among startups, defense contractors, and federal agencies, the Phoenix Xcelerator is driving Arkansas’s role as a national hub for defense innovation. Participants benefit from tailored mentorship, cutting-edge resources, and exclusive networking opportunities with tier-one defense contractors and other key stakeholders in the sector. This initiative is also instrumental in revitalizing the Defense Industrial Base, addressing critical challenges, and creating a talent pipeline that strengthens the resilience of the nation’s defense ecosystem.
In preparation for Phoenix, Forge Institute has enhanced curriculum to meet the evolving needs of the Defense Industrial Base. By adding procurement, contracting and cybersecurity compliance education and other key DoD-focused content, Forge is equipping small businesses with the tools to succeed in the defense marketplace.
Through its strategic partnerships, Forge Institute gains access to a diverse network of guest speakers and subject matter experts who enrich the curriculum, enhance learning experiences, and provide valuable real-world insights to participants.
In addition to Walter, Robert Baker serves as Entrepreneur Facilitator and Curriculum Instructor. Robert is a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience in the U.S. Air Force, specializing in innovation and compliance. At Air Mobility Command Headquarters, he collaborated with the AMC Innovation Team to drive strategic initiatives, streamline complex governmental processes, and ensure adherence to regulatory standards. His deep understanding of compliance frameworks and his ability to navigate intricate governmental procedures make him an invaluable asset to the Phoenix Accelerator. Robert's unique blend of military discipline and innovative thinking positions him to effectively mentor small businesses, guiding them through the complexities of defense contracting and fostering their success within the defense sector.
With the Forge Institute leading the charge, the Phoenix Xcelerator has emerged as a premier accelerator, combining deep technical expertise and industry leadership to empower small businesses in defense contracting and national security innovation. By equipping entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and strategic connections they need, this initiative strengthens Arkansas’s position as a leader in defense and aerospace while accelerating the development of transformative solutions.
As the only defense-focused accelerator in the region, Phoenix Xcelerator plays a pivotal role in fostering groundbreaking technologies and supporting the growth of startups in these critical sectors. Through its commitment to innovation, workforce development, and national security, it is driving Arkansas toward its vision of becoming the "arsenal of democracy."
To learn more about the program, visit https://www.forge.institute/phoenix-xcelerator.
Key Facts
The Forge Institute has announced Walter Burgess as the Entrepreneur-in-Residence for the Phoenix Xcelerator Program.
The Phoenix Xcelerator, a no-cost, no-equity accelerator program, equips promising entrepreneurs with mentorship, resources, and a structured curriculum to address pressing challenges in defense and aerospace.
Through partnerships with defense contractors, industry leaders, and innovative startups, the program supports ventures in key areas such as, but not limited to, Defense Manufacturing, Photonics, and Advanced Mobility/Drone/Counter-Drone.
As the only defense-focused accelerator in the region, Phoenix Xcelerator plays a pivotal role in fostering groundbreaking technologies and supporting the growth of startups in these critical sectors.
