MARCH 23-25, 2027 | BOSTON, MA
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TechConnect Critical Technology Spotlight:

Space, Defense and Mobility

 

The Critical Technology Spotlight 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 2027, 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 Boston to define the future of operational technologies across critical missions!


Why Participate?

Pitch on a global stage – Spotlight 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.  

Receive one free year of engineering software from MathWorks. LEARN MORE


SUBMIT NOW

 

2026 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
  • Other high-impact technologies enabling defense, aerospace, and mobility advancement

WHO SHOULD APPLY

  • 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
  • Pitch and Spotlight - 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 Boston, MA - March 23-25, 2027
 

KEY DATES

  • Early Deadline: October 16, 2026
    Early entrants receive 15% off registration, if accepted.
  • Final Deadline: November 18, 2026
  • Finalist Notification: Early December 2026
  • Pitch: March 23-25, 2027
  • Location: Hynes Convention Center, Boston, MA

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

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In partnership with

 TechConect            ATI            Mathworks

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



2026 SPONSORS & PARTNERS

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2026 SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

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2026 FEDERAL PARTNERS

2025 Federal Partners

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