Phoenix Xcelerator

Apply to our Aerospace & Defense startup tech accelerator to unlock resources, mentorship, and opportunities that can help take your business to the next level.

The Forge Institute Phoenix Xcelerator, a no-cost, no-equity program, identifies and cultivates promising early-stage entrepreneurs through corporate partnerships and innovative solutions tailored to meet national defense needs. Through structured programming—including a rigorous curriculum, mentorship, and coaching—the Phoenix Xcelerator and its partners advance industry-led innovation. 

Program Objectives:

  • Accelerate your business success and identify quality talent and strategic partners 

  • Validate your Business Model and Go-to-Market plan

  • Craft your Capabilities Statement and supporting marketing materials

  • Submit at least one written non-dilutive funding proposal (BAA, SBIR, OTA, etc.)

  • Develop and test your MVP/Prototype

  • Accelerate your company’s growth by evaluating dual-use technology markets

  • Enhance your company’s credibility through purposeful growth strategies

Technology Themes

  • Defense Manufacturing

  • Photonics & Directed Energy

  • Mobility / Drone & Counter Drone

  • Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity

  • Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)

  • Direct Fires

  • Other Technologies for Mission Readiness

Accelerating Innovation to Support the Warfighter

What We Provide

  • Business Growth: Receive expert advice on product development and go-to-market strategies and receive access to market intelligence on defense and aerospace sectors.

  • Mission Validation: Gain validation from experienced defense sector professionals who will assess and provide real-world defense requirements.

  • Access Prototype and Testing Resources: Access to advanced testing facilities, specialized equipment, technology, facilities and expertise for assistance with product design, prototyping, testing, and manufacturing.

  • Access to Capital: Gain access to capital networks, grant assistance, and non-dilutive funding opportunities.

  • Expand Your Network: Gain access to a collaborative ecosystem and attend lunch or dinner meetings with trusted partners, tier-one defense contractors, leaders from defense companies, and defense mission partners.

  • World-Class Curriculum: A 12 week curriculum combining startup accelerator fundamentals, key defense principles, and technical guidance on compliance and defense standards, designed to equip ventures for growth within the defense and aerospace sectors.

  • Commercialization: Transform unused or under-utilized IP into revenue-generating products or services or develop spin-off companies, teaming agreements or other partnerships that can yield financial returns.

  • Workforce Development: Enhance your team’s skills in defense procurement, leadership, and problem-solving through experience. 

  • Tax Incentives & Economic Benefits: Potential access to tax credits, grants, and cost-saving initiatives tied to program participation.

  • Dual-Use Technology: Adapt IP for civilian and military applications to diversify risk and expand market opportunities.

Partner Benefits

How It Works

Program Details

  • Onsite: Little Rock & Northwest Arkansas

  • Each Participant Signs the Forge Institute NDA & Program Participation Agreements

Key Dates

Nov. 15 - Applications Open

Dec. 20 - Applications Close

Jan. 10 - Offers Extended

Feb. 10 - Program Kickoff

May 2 - Program Ends

May 7 - Demo Day

Are you ready to emerge as a Phoenix?

Check back soon. Applications open November 15, 2024.

Why Arkansas?

Arkansas is a prominent hub for defense and aerospace expertise, with aerospace and defense products as the state’s leading export, generating approximately $1.8 billion annually.

  • The sector supports over 10,000 skilled technical jobs in Arkansas, from machinists and mechanics to engineers and researchers.

  • It is home to major defense companies such as: Lockheed Martin, Dassault Falcon Jet, Raytheon, and Aerojet Rocketdyne, alongside a strong ecosystem of small business suppliers and innovators.

Defense Ecosystem Collaborators