NSIN Vector

The Vector program helps NSIN-alumni teams (from H4D, Hacks, Maker, and X-Force) to develop their solutions into dual-use businesses

Accelerator Program
  • Program Type
    Accelerator Program
  • Industry Focus
    Dual-Use Solutions to Solve DoD Problems
  • Submission Deadline
    March 13, 2022 (Summer Cohort); June 19, 2022 (Fall Cohort)
  • Program Duration
    8 Weeks
  • Location or Virtual
    Virtual or In-Person
  • Eligibilty Requirements (Y/N)
    Yes

Seeking prior NSIN alumni (e.g. Hacking for Defense, Hackathon, X-Force, Foundry, DIA, and Maker) teams to participate in Vector, an accelerated learning program on the business fundamentals of dual-use venture creation. Top performers will have an opportunity to compete for a follow-on contract of up to $25,000.

The Vector program helps National Security Innovation Network (NSIN)-alumni teams (from Hacking for Defense, Hackathon, X-Force, Foundry, DIA, and Maker) to develop their solutions into dual-use businesses for customers inside and outside the Department of Defense (DoD). Over eight weeks, Vector teaches business fundamentals of dual-use venture creation to the teams and concludes with a pitch competition for a $25,000 prize.

Program Overview

Former and Current DoD Sponsors

Vector is an opportunity to continue the development of a solution with a team of NSIN problem solvers.
DoD problem-sponsors must commit two hours each week to help teams iterate on their ideas and facilitate meetings for further product validation with other interested DoD entities.

NSIN Teams

Vector is open to prior NSIN-program alumni who are interested in scaling their solution concepts into viable businesses.
Participants must commit three hours each week during a spring or fall semester, and participate in a final pitch event either online or in person.
Interested applicants must show evidence of continued DoD sponsor support for consideration.

Areas of Focus

All technology areas eligible, but these 10 will take priority:

  • Hypersonics
  • Directed energy
  • Command, control and communications
  • Space offense and defense
  • Cybersecurity
  • Artificial intelligence/machine learning
  • Missile defense
  • Quantum science and computing
  • Microelectronics
  • Autonomy
  • Future Phases

    Check out an overview of each competition phase below - complete rules for each phase will be released as the competition progresses.

    Program Sponsor