SDI Reception

Menu
Menu
Menu
Menu
Menu

SDI SHOWCASE

Applications for the SDI Showcase and Reception are now closed. Thank you for attending our event on March 9, 2024.

Calling all Space and
Defense Innovators

img

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 four 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 closed. 

Congratulations to the 2024 SDI SHowcase Winners

Overall Best in Show

Best Startup Innovation

Integrated Sensing & Cyber

Space Technology

AI and Autonomy

Renewable Energy Generation & Storage

Wildcard

Award Categories

Overall Best in Show

Honors the single most impactful innovation presented at the event, irrespective of industry focus or company size.

Best Startup Innovation

Recognizes startups (under $20M in annual revenue) that present a promising and innovative solution.

Integrated Sensing & Cyber

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.

Space Technology

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.

AI and Autonomy

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.

Renewable Energy Generation & Storage

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.

Wildcard

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.

live event judges

FINALIST SELECTION JUDGES

Selection Criteria

At the Space and Defense Innovation Showcase, we are committed to curating a lineup of live demos that represent the pinnacle of innovation in these critical sectors. Our selection criteria are designed to ensure a diverse and impactful array of technologies and solutions that not only captivate the audience but also hold the promise of real-world applicability. From the maturity of the development stage to the originality and market potential, each criterion plays a vital role in shaping an event that is both engaging and meaningful. Read on to understand the specific criteria that will guide our selection process.

Development Stage

What We Evaluate

We assess whether the innovation is at a conceptual stage, in development, or market-ready. We look for a balance between early-stage ideas and mature products to offer a comprehensive event lineup.

Criteria

The maturity of the product or service, from concept to market-ready.

Rationale

A mix of early-stage and mature innovations provides a comprehensive view of the industry landscape.

Originality

What We Evaluate

We examine how your innovation stands out from existing solutions. Unique features, novel applications, or groundbreaking technologies will score higher in this category.

Criteria

The uniqueness and novelty of the innovation.

Rationale

Original ideas often capture the most attention and can set the tone for future industry trends.

Market Potential

What We Evaluate

We consider the scalability of your innovation and its potential to address specific challenges in the Space and Defense sectors. Solutions with a clear path to market adoption will be favored.

Criteria

The scalability and applicability of the product or service in solving real-world problems.

Rationale

High market potential increases the likelihood of adoption and impact.

Technical Feasibility

What We Evaluate

We assess the practicality of implementing your innovation, considering factors like technological readiness, resource requirements, and expertise needed.

Criteria

The practicality of the innovation in terms of technology, resources, and expertise required for implementation.

Rationale

An innovation that is technically feasible is more likely to transition from a demo to a real-world application, thereby increasing its potential impact.

Wow Factor

What We Evaluate

We gauge the ability of your innovation to engage and captivate the audience. Innovations that are not only functional but also exciting and memorable will excel in this category.

Criteria

The ability of the innovation to captivate the audience and leave a lasting impression.

Rationale

The “Wow Factor” enhances attendee engagement and makes the event memorable.

Diversity

What We Evaluate

We look at the range of innovations presented and the diversity of the teams behind them. A varied lineup that represents different facets of the Space and Defense sectors is our goal.

Criteria

The variety in types of innovations, as well as diversity in the teams behind them.

Rationale

A diverse lineup enriches the event experience and promotes inclusivity.

Entry Date

What We Evaluate

We take into account the timeliness of your application. Early submissions may indicate a higher level of preparation and enthusiasm, which is a plus in our selection process.

Criteria

The timeliness of the application submission.

Rationale

Early submissions allow for better planning and can indicate strong interest and preparation.

SDI Ignite Awards Prize Packages

The SDI Ignite Awards category winners will receive a prize valued at $10,000 of an IP LifeCycle Review from the leading law firm for government contractors and technology solution providers, Ward and Berry, PLLC.

An IP LifeCycle Review is a valuable assessment that helps innovators understand their IP vulnerabilities and creates strategies that leverage contracts and internal practices to provide practical protection solutions. For this prize, Ward & Berry will review the IP of category winners from a lifecycle approach – from creation through sales – and look for gaps in IP protection in employment agreements, vendor development contracts, customer licensing, government data rights, partner licensing, and the use of open source. Category winners will learn where gaps in IP protection may exist and receive custom recommendations on how to close those gaps.

The SDI team is proud to announce an Ignite Awards prize package for an automatic invitation for all SDI Showcase applicants to apply for a SBIR Advisors SBIR and STTR cohort! Each SDI Ignite Awards finalist will automatically be accepted into one of the Cohorts, valued at $5,000 per month for each cohort spot.

The SBIR Advisors SBIR & STTR Cohort is an 8-week educational and applied workshop to walk companies through submission of an Open Topic SBIR and STTR application. The cohort is led by SBIR Advisors CEO Samuel Riehn, and Senior Team Director, Ashley Chung, who combined have nearly two decades of experience as Air Force and Space Force contracting officers and have helped clients win >$100M in SBIR and STTR awards.

The cohort walks companies through developing and articulating their use case and tying it to urgent operational needs; preparing all six volumes of a DAF SBIR and STTR proposal with compliant supporting documents; and managing all of the required registrations, systems, and eligibility issues.

SDI Ignite Awards category winners will receive a prize valued at $5,000 for a comprehensive digital engagement audit review from Distinctive Edge Partners.

 

Understanding and aligning your messaging with your target audience is not just a strategy, it’s a necessity for success. Our digital engagement audit is specifically designed to address this critical need.

 

Through our comprehensive review, we evaluate your website and LinkedIn strategies to ensure they resonate effectively with your target audience. We identify potential gaps and key opportunities, providing actionable insights to enhance your engagement and overall impact. This focused approach ensures your messaging is not only heard but also impactful, setting the stage for increased market presence and business growth.

The AI and Autonomy and Integrated Sensing and Cyber category winners will receive a Q-Branch Federal Strategy Framework (QBSF), a comprehensive tool designed to guide winners through the intricate maze of the federal marketplace, valued at $14,000. 


The QBSF is engineered to demystify the complexities of the federal ecosystem, providing businesses with the clarity and insight needed to navigate its unique challenges and opportunities. Beneficiaries of the QBSF will emerge with a robust strategy that aligns with federal standards and expectations, positioning your company not just to enter but to lead in the federal marketplace. Whether it’s understanding compliance, navigating contracts, building relationships with federal agencies, or securing dual-use investment, the QBSF is your gateway to becoming a formidable player in this highly specialized sector.

The Renewable Energy Generation and Storage category winner will receive a prize valued at $6,500.00 for technical and business assistance service from FedTech. The winner will select one of FedTech’s services: Market Research, Commercialization Strategy Review, or Communications Assessment to receive support from our experienced team.

 

●  Market Research: FedTech will assess and review potential end-users in the form of an end-user mapping product. In addition to end-user mapping, FedTech will recommend resources and engagement points for connections with the DoD ecosystem.

 

●  Commercialization Strategy Review: SBIR applications require a robust commercialization strategy. In the deliverable of a deck, FedTech will provide high-level guidance and frameworks for an effective Phase II SBIR commercialization strategy. FedTech will not provide explicit proposal writing services for SBIR applications.

 

●  Communications Assessment: FedTech will review and recommend improvements to a company’s pitch deck and value proposition for its technology. FedTech will provide recommendations via email to improve the company’s messaging to align with DoD taxonomy.

 

The winning company can use up to 3 virtual sessions with the FedTech team to produce a deliverable starting in Q3 2024.

The Best-in-Show and Best Startup Innovation category winners will receive an in-kind prize package from Defense One, our SDI Showcase and VIP Reception Title Media Sponsor, valued at $25,000.

The winner of the Space Technology Category will be interviewed on either the Case for Space (a TV show hosted by Skytop Media on SlingTV) or the Podcast for the Future, allowing the winner a chance to showcase their technology to a large audience of potential customers, partners and investors. The timing and venue of the interview will be determined after the Showcase in consultation between the winner and Tim Chrisman.

The goal of the SDI Showcase is to bring the most interesting and innovative technologies to government buyers. As such, we regularly partner with incubators, investment firms, trade groups and other organizations who work across the technology space. Some of the most interesting advancements are coming from sectors not typically associated with space and defense innovation.
Learn More About Partnerhip Opportunities

Thank you to our 2024 Showcase Title & Category Sponsors

Second Front