2026: Accelerator Alley

Commercial / Dual-Use Tech. Defense Scale.

You’ve built groundbreaking tech. Now unlock the world’s most powerful customer: Global Security.

Accelerator Alley connects startups and small businesses directly with the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC), senior leaders, and defense industry decision-makers.

What can your company achieve here?

  • Contracts & Sales: Generate immediate government leads and high-value follow-up discussions.
  • Validation & Feedback: Get raw, meaningful insights from mission-critical end users.
  • CRADAs & Development: Fast-track federal co-development and R&D agreements.
  • Capital & B2B Growth: Connect with top-tier VCs and strategic enterprise partners.

Program Details & Exclusivity

This program is purpose-built for small businesses and startups looking to break into the special operations market. To qualify, companies must have fewer than 250 employees and little to no current SOF sales.

Only 12 organizations will be selected to receive a tabletop display space—offering a high-visibility platform to showcase new technologies and concepts that align with USASOC capability priorities.

USASOC priorities

1. Counter UxS (Combating Unmanned Systems)
2. SOF AI (Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Special Operations)
3. Deep Sense / Deep Strike (Focused on advanced sensing and precision engagement)
4. Swarming (Hetergeneous or Homogeneous coordinated systems that operate autonomously or through one to many control)
5. Enhance Capabilities (Empowering the future force)
  • ETL Interoperable data integration architecture
  • Al and Edge Compute (Computer vision, MLOps)
  • GPS Denied Navigation and DDIL Communication architecture
  • Scalable Sensor Networks architecture
  • Hardening ETL Pipeline and edge devices architecture
  • Multi-Domain Autonomous Robotics Systems
  • Contested Logistics
  • Supply Chain modernization

Application details below.

Qualifications

  • Fewer than 250 employees (small business)
  • Low or no existing SOF sales (new to the market)
  • Capabilities aligned with USASOC priorities
  • Technology Readiness Level will also be considered

*Points awarded based on adherence to the above qualifications.*

The Application Process

  • 27 July – 21 August: Application Window
  • 24 August – 11 September: Review Period
  • 14 September: Selections Announced
  • 16 – 19 November: Accelerator Alley showcased onsite at MWW

The Cost & Benefits

If selected, participation is $1,000 and includes:

  • (1) 6’x8′ Pipe & Drape Booth
  • (1) 6’ table and (2) two chairs
  • (2) Full Conference Passes
  • Access to all networking sessions, keynotes, and exhibit hours

The When & Where

  • Tuesday, 18 Nov, 0800 – 1730
  • Wednesday, 19 Nov, 0800 – 1330

*Schedule subject to be changed and will be finalized with selection announcements.

The Accelerator Alley area is located in the heart of the event at the Iron Mike Conference Center Cafeteria at Ft. Bragg, NC.

Application opening July 27