JUNE 9-11, 2025 | AUSTIN, TX
View Co-Located Events



TechConnect Critical Technology Challenge: AI and Digital Transformation

Produced by    TechConect/ATI




 

Addressing Critical Technologies and National Priorities

Transforming Artificial Intelligence Challenges into Opportunities.

In alignment with U.S. National Priorities and Critical Technologies, TechConnect is proud to announce its new Critical Technologies Challenge. The Critical Technology Challenge is an open innovation program designed to accelerate transformative technologies in lockstep with rapidly evolving strategic priorities for national, societal, and economic security. The Critical Technology Challenge is an extension of TechConnect's 25+ year Innovation Challenge, now with a formal alignment with national technology priority areas.


Accelerate your Critical Innovations:

Participate in the nation’s largest pooling of federal, private, and corporate funding and acceleration opportunities!

  • Pitch on a Global Stage – Present your solution to key industry, investment and government decision-makers and funders.
  • Access Funders – Connect directly with leadership representing over $8 Billion in annual emerging technology funding through SBIR and OTA contract offices and vehicles.
  • Shape the Conversation – Position yourself and your innovation at the forefront of the industry’s transformation, influencing the direction of policy, funding, and development.

SUBMIT INNOVATION    Due March 7

Have a solution? Join the Challenge and help power the next generation of AI innovation.


 

Areas of Interest:

  • AI for Critical Technologies
  • Data Analytics and Solutions
  • Autonomous Systems and Robotics
  • Cybersecurity Platforms
  • Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure
  • AI for National Security
  • and more...

WHO SHOULD APPLY

Our industry and government tech scouts seek cutting-edge, commercially viable innovations, including technologies from: University and research labs with actionable IP and spinouts; startups seeking investment, licensing, partnering actions; and Federal awardees (i.e., SBIR, OTA DARPA. ARPAE, ARPAH, BARDA).


 

 

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Submit your technology for review. If selected, you will confirm your position and pitch to a panel of investment, industry, and national security leadership in Austin, Texas at the conference.

SUBMIT INNOVATION   Due March 7

 

PITCH & SHOWCASE

TechConnect will notify finalists in early April. Selected companies must confirm their participation through either a registration or showcase fee, as indicated upon notification.

Pitch dates: June 9-11, 2025
Challenge location: JW Marriott | Austin, TX

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

 

SPONSORS & PARTNERS

2025 Sponsors & Partners

 

2024 SPONSORS & PARTNERS

2024 Sponsors & Partners
 

2024 SBIR/STTR AGENCY PARTNERS

2024 BIR/STTR Agency Partners
TechConnect at division of ATI

Produced by

TechConnect a division of ATI

© Copyright 2025 TechConnect. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use