Space, Defense and Mobility

The Critical Technology Spotlight is an open innovation program focused on accelerating breakthrough technologies in alignment with evolving strategic priorities for national security, defense modernization, and next-generation mobility. In 2027, the spotlight is on space, defense, and mobility—highlighting innovations that improve mission readiness, platform performance, logistics resilience, and autonomous operations across air, land, sea, and space domains. Join us in Boston to define the future of operational technologies across critical missions!

Why Participate?

✓	Pitch on a global stage – Spotlight your defense, mobility, or space 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.
✓	Receive one free year of engineering software from MathWorks. Learn More

SUBMIT NOW

Areas of Interest:

Autonomous and unmanned systems (UAS, UGV, USV, ROV, satellites)
In-space manufacturing, mobility, and logistics
Dual-use and defense-grade materials or components
Navigation, guidance, and sensing technologies
Advanced propulsion and energy systems
Platform survivability, hardening, and thermal management
Space situational awareness and domain protection
Edge computing and AI for contested environments
Mobility solutions for austere or high-risk environments
Other high-impact technologies enabling defense, aerospace, and mobility advancement

Who Should Apply

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

Submit your Innovation
Pitch and Spotlight - If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to present live at the event.
Pitch in Boston, MA - March 23-25, 2027

Key Dates

Early Deadline: October 16, 2026
Final Deadline: November 18, 2026
Finalist Notification: Early December 2026
Pitch: March 23-25, 2027
Location: Hynes Convention Center, Boston, MA

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

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ATI is supporting attendee registration as part of its commitment to connecting innovators, industry, government, and investment stakeholders. This support enables free registration for the top 50 finalists.

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