Applications for the SDI Ignite Awards are now open. We are looking for the most interesting space and defense technologies from startups to established firms. A panel of space and defense industry experts will evaluate applicants, choosing two finalists per award category.
The Space and Defense Innovation Showcase and SDI Ignite Awards aim to recognize and celebrate the most groundbreaking technologies and solutions throughout the space and defense sectors. Sponsored by Second Front, the competition focuses on five of the OUSD(R&E) technology categories and is held in two phases.
The online portion of the competition will take place on Valid Eval’s secure, online evaluation platform. Companies will compete based on company size and sector, resulting in two finalists from each category being selected.
The two finalists will then face off in a live, on-stage demo competition, with the winners being crowned during the Space and Defense Innovation VIP Reception on March 9, 2024, in Austin, Texas!
These awards offer a great opportunity for participants to gain industry recognition, attract potential investors, and receive media coverage.
Applications for the SDI Ignite Awards are open and will close on December 15, 2023 at midnight.
Honors the single most impactful innovation presented at the event, irrespective of industry focus or company size.
Recognizes startups (under $20M in annual revenue) that present a promising and innovative solution.
Celebrates established companies (over $21M in annual revenue) for exceptional innovation.
Technologies that foster seamless integration between sensors and the digital landscape, as well as defensive and offensive cybersecurity products. This category covers technologies that can protect the nation from cyber threats and solutions geared towards electronic warfare, radar, and multi-functional sensors for a secure operational edge. Companies with applications in data collection, management, organization and big data, including simulation, analysis, presentation, interpretation, security, and augmentation, who have traditionally only worked in the commercial sector are encouraged to apply.
Technologies advancing space-based communication, navigation, operations, and life beyond Earth. Companies that are driving innovation to enable robust space architectures, better operations, autonomy, space situational awareness, and on-orbit processing are encouraged to apply. Companies in this realm may have innovative commercial solutions that could be applied to the space sector or come from traditional cross-over industries such as aerospace, telecommunications, mining, and defense.
Technologies expanding operational capabilities through artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, focusing on evidence-based assurance and operational effectiveness. Companies could be developing AI-driven systems and analysis tools that use new technologies to solve problems more efficiently. This category also looks at advancements in machine learning algorithms, big data automation, and autonomous operational systems. This category is for innovators from across sectors who are using AI in new ways.
Technologies diversifying energy sources and advancing storage solutions, adding resilience and operational flexibility through renewable energy innovations. Firms may focus on renewable energy generation, advanced storage solutions, and grid integration, influencing defense, urban development, and transportation sectors.
Technologies delving into the microcosm of quantum science to unearth groundbreaking applications in computation, sensing, and encryption. Companies might be creating quantum computing promises to accelerate problem-solving or quantum sensors offering unrivaled accuracy in navigation and timing, translating into more informed decisions and robust encryption capabilities.
Some of the most revolutionary and impactful technologies come from unlikely sources. From media companies that can help fight disinformation to proptech companies that could make base housing run better to gaming companies that can improve response times–this category aims to bring new technologies into the fold. The more creative, the better.
The maturity of the product or service, from concept to market-ready.