Established in 2018, Army xTech connects the United States Army with businesses and works to break down traditional barriers to receive funding opportunities with the Army. xTech holds prize competitions and hosts challenges to create a more innovation-friendly platform. The Army aims to accelerate technology development and provide businesses with a unique collaboration opportunity.
In four years, xTech has awarded $13.77 million in prizes and $45 million in contracts. Prize and contract awardees have the opportunity to receive follow-on contracts. Awardees also have direct exposure to Army experts and commercial stakeholders key, as well as networking, education and mentorship opportunities. xTech connects businesses with Army experts in their fields, Army research laboratories and engineering centers, as well as reservists and Army leadership.
Each competition has its own eligibility requirements, some are similar to SBIR/STTR standards while others have their own Request for Information (RFI). These requirements are listed on the competition’s webpage. Most opportunities are aimed at U.S. non-defense businesses only. These companies must have clear alignment with Army needs and direct technology alignment with the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Acquisition, Logistics and Technology) (ASA(ALT)) and the Program Executive Office (PEO) priorities. As with any product, applicants must know their Army client’s needs to be successful.
Fortunately, the Army has many competitions every year in which are customized to their needs. Some competitions have already closed. Current open competitions are listed below.
Active competitions:
xTech also facilitates an accelerator which runs around 4-6 months during the time a semifinalist is selected to the finals. Accelerators vary based on the group of participants and competition, but all offer educational programming, mentorship with both Army and commercial stakeholders, strategic exposure, and community building. Over 1,600 Army personnel are involved in customer discovery through the accelerator.
Applying for an xTech competition is done easily via the competition’s webpage. To see client success stories and spotlights check out xTech’s news page which also houses announcements for upcoming opportunities.
