On July 24, the Applied Research Institute (ARI) announced an award with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to lead and manage a five-year, $600 million-dollar cooperative agreement designed to accelerate national security innovation and deliver emerging technologies to the Department of Defense (DoD).
The first effort under this agreement will be the administration of the Defense Innovation OnRamp Hubs, which integrates physical locations, and expert support for commercial and dual use technologies into the DoD ecosystem in line with the DIU’s strategy. These OnRamp Hubs are focused on enabling more accessible pathways for non-traditional and emerging partners to contribute to national security missions providing localized guidance on mission needs, prototyping, and DoD engagement through regional hubs in Arizona, Hawaii, Kansas, Ohio, Washington and soon to be added locations in Kentucky, Minnesota, and Montana.
With deep expertise in guiding and fast-tracking critical technology acquisition, the Applied Research Institute will administer this network of physical hubs while administering a variety of DIU projects focused on lowering the barriers of entry for commercial and dual-use technology into the Department of Defense. These projects will include efforts to incubate and accelerate emerging companies, broaden the commercialization efforts with universities, and support DIU’s efforts to engage with the national security innovation base.
Applied Research Institute EVP of Finance and Operations, Leslie Wolfe, said, “supporting DIU’s mission is not just business; it is a responsibility ARI takes seriously, turning strategic needs into operational realities.”
“ARI is honored to support DIU’s vision and leadership in accelerating defense innovation,” said David Roberts, CEO of the Applied Research Institute. “This role represents a significant validation of our team’s commitment to advancing critical American security interests.”
Source: ARI
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