TechConnect Critical Technology Challenge: Space, Defense And Mobility

MARCH 10-12, 2026 | RALEIGH, NC
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Addressing National Priorities Through Advanced Operational Technologies

The Critical Technology Challenge is an open-innovation program focused on accelerating breakthrough technologies in alignment with evolving strategic priorities for national security, defense modernization, and next-generation mobility. In 2026, the spotlight is on space, defense, and mobility—highlighting innovations that improve mission readiness, platform performance, logistics resilience, and autonomous operations across air, land, sea, and space domains. Join us in Raleigh to define the future of operational technologies across critical missions!

Why Participate?

✓	Pitch on a global stage – Showcase your defense, mobility, or space innovation to top-tier industry, government, and investor decision-makers.

✓	Access major funding – Engage with leaders controlling over $8 billion annually through SBIR, OTA, and related funding vehicles.

✓	Shape the future – Position your innovation at the epicenter of policymaking and industry strategy.

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Areas of Interest:

Autonomous and unmanned systems (UAS, UGV, USV, ROV, satellites)
In-space manufacturing, mobility, and logistics
Dual-use and defense-grade materials or components
Navigation, guidance, and sensing technologies
Advanced propulsion and energy systems
Platform survivability, hardening, and thermal management
Space situational awareness and domain protection
Edge computing and AI for contested environments
Mobility solutions for austere or high-risk environments
and other high-impact technologies enabling defense, aerospace, and mobility advancement

This challenge does not declare a single winner; instead, individuals selected to participate are honored as finalists.

WHO SHOULD APPLY

Ideal participants include:

Universities, national labs, and research groups with actionable IP
Startups in need of funding, licensing, or strategic partnerships
SBIR/STTR and other federally funded innovators seeking growth

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Submit your Innovation - Deadline is October 24, 2025.
Pitch and Showcase - If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to present live at the event.
Register to Confirm - A registration fee is required to participate.
Pitch in Raleigh, NC, March 10–12, 2026.

Key Dates

Submission Deadline: October 24, 2025
Finalist Notification: November 2025
Pitch & Showcase: March 10–12, 2026
Location: Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, NC

Questions? Please contact Emma Mooney: emma.mooney@techconnect.org

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2025 SPONSORS & PARTNERS

2025 SBIR/STTR AGENCY PARTNERS

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