The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is launching the Dual-Use University Accelerator Challenge to identify and support early-stage, dual-use technologies emerging from U.S. universities that align with Department of Defense (DoD) mission needs. DIU, a DoD organization, focuses on accelerating the adoption of commercial technology into the U.S. military by leveraging emerging innovations. This challenge targets university-affiliated startups, including those founded by students, faculty, staff, and recent graduates, aiming to prepare them for defense market engagement.
The selected applicants, up to 15 finalists, will participate in a 12-week accelerator program designed to equip them for success in the defense ecosystem. This includes receiving a share of a $500,000 prize pool, tailored mentorship, curriculum on defense tech markets and acquisition processes, and opportunities for collaboration and DoD engagement. The program emphasizes support for early technology readiness level (TRL 2–4) innovations, with limited or no prior DoD contract experience. Finalists will also gain potential access to follow-on opportunities such as SBIR grants, OTAs, FAR-based contracts, and CRADAs.
Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements. Companies must be U.S.-owned and operated, founded by academic community members within the past 18 months, and actively registered in SAM.gov with a CAGE code. Participants must commit to attending the entire accelerator, which culminates in an in-person showcase event in Sunnyvale, California. This event is the only mandatory in-person component; all other programming will be virtual.
The challenge focuses on technological solutions in key areas including energy, autonomy, artificial intelligence, cyber and telecommunications, emerging technologies, human systems, and space. Innovations should demonstrate scalability, cost-effectiveness, operational impact, and alignment with DoD strategic goals. Applications will be evaluated based on technical merit, team qualifications, commercial viability, alignment with DoD needs, and presentation quality.
Key deadlines include the release of the solicitation on May 28, 2025, and an “Ask Me Anything” session on June 10, 2025, at 12:00 ET. The challenge closes on June 25, 2025, at 11:59:59 pm ET. Finalists will be announced by July 25, 2025, with the accelerator program launching in August and concluding in October 2025. Applicants must submit a horizontal pitch deck in PDF format (max 15 slides) and a 90-second unlisted YouTube video. Questions may be directed to prizechallenge@diu.mil.
