Defense Tech Solutions to Strengthen National Security and Intelligence
Supporting National Security through Cyber and Innovative Defense Technology Solutions
Global venture capital investments in defense-related companies jumped by 33% year-over-year to $31 billion in 2024, and it’s not slowing down. The defense tech industry is booming, and there are more opportunities than ever before to enter this industry, but navigating the complexities within government agencies can be difficult.
Deep understanding of requirements, access to end users, and decision makers is critical, and by joining ATDC, you will no longer be alone in this endeavor.
ATDC’s Cybersecurity and Emerging Defense Technology Program stands as a vital bridge connecting innovative startups with the defense, intelligence, federal, and private sectors. You’ll have access to a team that has spent years immersed in the defense industry and will walk alongside you, coach you, and guide you as you scale your defense technology company in this rapidly changing environment.
I’m Blair Tighe,
ATDC Defense Tech Catalyst Lead
Three ATDC catalysts specializing in defense technology signify that the industry moves fast and needs to stay on the cutting-edge to protect our country. Led by Blair Tighe, a 19-year U.S. Army veteran with experience in private sector cyber strategy and emerging technologies, he helps secure pilot projects, investments, and customer connections for ATDC startups through partnerships.
Accompanying Blair are two additional seasoned experts with deep ties to the military. Bob Nunnally functioned as an officer and pilot in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years and, since retiring, has been involved in four startup defense technology companies. Jan Norris has served in the U.S. Army for more than 25 years and has held senior roles in the U.S. Army and Department of Defense, including operating as the Army’s Cybersecurity Director and Chief Information Security Officer.
Between the three team members, they bring a combined 65 years of defense tech experience, including emerging technologies, system design, cybersecurity, and federal contracting, as well as deep connections in the government and military to bring ATDC startups to the forefront of Department of Defense opportunities.
Our advice for founders in the defense technology space,
“Ensure you conduct significant market research and market sensing conversations with customers before creating a go-to-market campaign.”
Where Innovative Defense Technologies Meet Mission-Critical Needs
Conditions in national security change rapidly, and defense technology companies must anticipate these changes faster than ever before.
Our team will teach you about non-intuitive aspects of the defense market, how to determine product-market fit, connect with industry, and create rapid investment cycles, allowing you to scale quickly to meet market demands.
ATDC has three levels of programs for startups: Educate, Accelerate, and Signature, with Accelerate and Signature having industry-specific opportunities.
Not Sure What Level You Fit Into?
Startups in this space receive:
- Business strategy guidance from defense technology coaches and industry experts.
- Introduction to top-tier investors and non-dilutive grant funding opportunities.
- Assistance navigating the complex defense ecosystem.
- Expert coaching around product application fit to a Defense / FED Ideal Customer Profile (ICP).
- Networking and peer events with fellow ATDC founders, CEOs, and industry experts.
- Industry-specific events such as circles, conferences, use-case challenges, etc.
- Access and introductions to defense technology stakeholders.
Work Where Startups Scale Innovative Defense Technologies. Rent Office Space at ATDC.
Why settle for generic office space when you can rent space at ATDC for a fraction of the cost, and be surrounded by defense technology companies that are developing solutions to keep our military, the public, and our nation safe?
Benefits
- Be around like-minded people
- Have your catalyst close by
- Tap into Georgia Tech students, faculty, and researchers
- Engage with technology-related talent
- Limited access to ATDC spaces, such the design studio and AI lab
Features
- 50+ office suites ranging from 500 to 1,500 sq ft
- 10 single and double offices ranging from 138 to 597 sq ft
- Subsidized rent, which also covers utilities, Georgia Tech’s high-speed wireless internet, office furniture, company logo on suite door
- Ability to book conference rooms and rooftop area at no additional charge
- Georgia Tech perks, including access to campus transit, dining facilities, sporting events, discounted rates at the Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center, and the opportunity to join the Campus Recreation Center.
Defense Technology Diamond Sponsor
MANTECH
MANTECH is at the forefront of the country’s most critical missions. With an unwavering focus on innovating, developing, and deploying new and emerging technologies, ManTech is continually advancing its clients’ ability to navigate unfamiliar territory and tackle seemingly insurmountable challenges.
Deeply immersed in their missions and relentlessly committed to excellence, MANTECH leverages exceptional expertise to deliver solutions in Cognitive Cyber, Data and AI and cutting-edge tech that shape the future of clients’ success in the Defense, Intelligence, and Federal Civilian Sectors.
Through its partnership with ATDC, ManTech taps into the Georgia-based startup ecosystem that is developing innovative defense technologies and cyber solutions to advance and support the defense industry.
Platinum Partners
In addition to the Diamond and Platinum Partners, we also offer a Gold Partner Level.
Gold Partners
Meet ATDC’s Defense Technology Companies
From a company that builds fighter drones to a startup that makes industrial equipment to self-monitor and self-report cyberattacks, to a defense technology company using patent-pending technology to detect national and state-level threats, these startups are creating nimble solutions to keep up with threats and safety initiatives in an ever-changing world.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I understand where my capability fits within the defense market?
By working with the ATDC team, we provide expert coaching on product-application fit to a Defense / FED Ideal Customer Profile (ICP).
How can I connect with the right stakeholders in the defense industry?
The ATDC team and our partners have connections across the entire defense industry. Our team will make introductions and provide access to stakeholders that align with your technology and/or product.
Resources for Defense Tech Startups
Defense Technology Stories
Building Our Defenses: ATDC Partners with ManTech to Scale Defense Tech Startups
The Defense Innovation Unit Roadshow Comes to ATDC
Our Impact
by the Numbers
Our
Sponsors
