MARCH 10-12, 2026 | RALEIGH, NC
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Critical Technology Spotlight: Advanced Materials


 

Addressing National Priorities Through Scalable, Secure, and High-Performance Systems

The Critical Technology Spotlight is an open-innovation program focused on accelerating breakthrough technologies in alignment with evolving strategic priorities for national security, infrastructure modernization, and economic competitiveness. In 2026, the spotlight is on electronics and microsystems, showcasing innovations in advanced semiconductors, microelectronics, embedded systems, and secure hardware platforms. Join us in Raleigh to define the future of electronics and microsystems!


Why Participate?

Pitch on a global stage – Spotlight your electronics or microsystems 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. 

Submissions Closed

 

Areas of Interest:

  • Semiconductor devices, fabrication, and materials
  • Advanced packaging and heterogeneous integration
  • MEMS, NEMS, and other microsystems
  • Embedded systems, chip-scale systems, and sensors
  • Secure hardware and cyber-physical security
  • Edge computing and low-power electronics
  • Photonic and optoelectronic systems
  • Radiation-hardened and high-reliability electronics
  • Flexible, stretchable, and wearable electronics
  • and other high-impact innovations in electronics and microsystems

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

WHO SHOULD APPLY

Ideal participants include:

  • 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

  1. Submit your Innovation - Deadline: November 7, 2025.
  2. Pitch and Spotlight - If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to present live at the event.
  3. Register to Confirm - A registration fee is required to participate.
  4. Pitch in Raleigh, NC, March 10–12, 2026.
 

KEY DATES

  • Submission Deadline: November 7, 2025
  • Finalist Notification: December 2025
  • Pitch & Spotlight: March 10–12, 2026
  • Location: Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, NC

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



SPONSORS & PARTNERS

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SUPPORTING ORGANIZATIONS

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2026 FEDERAL PARTNERS

2025 Federal Partners

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