VFTech’s mantra is dual-use technology superiority for the Air Force (and DoD/IC).  VFTech starts that process by identifying high potential startups via Venture Capital/private equity referrals, referrals from other accelerators (i.e. TechStars), in-person scouting trips, conferences/expos, and uniquely, a proprietary non-public database of 1,000’s of global technology companies that employs advanced artificial intelligence (AI) search tools to identify companies with known dual-use capabilities.  VFTech then provides a “bootcamp,” introducing the technology partners to realities of the DoD/IC innovation ecosystem (SBIR, DIU/OTA, In-Q-Tel, DAPRA, RIF, etc…) and initial identification of assessed military enduser groups.

Following the linkage to know and assessed DoD endusers and usecase, VFTech then provides a tailored incubation program that includes:
1) Pitch coaching for partner teams
2) A review of the partner’s intellectual property (IP) by a globally recognized IP lawyer to ensure their technology is protected
3) . A review of the technology’s relationship to International Trafficking in Arms Regulation (ITAR) by a nationally recognized ITAR lawyer to provide the company with full awareness of what may, and may not, be exported following U.S. Federal research and development
4) An introduction to 10+ U.S. venture capital and seed funds that specifically invest in dual-use/national security, early stage/deep tech, and/or international small companies
5) Identification of a partner company that is legally acceptable to engage the U.S. innovation ecosystem, specifically the Air Force AFWERX SBIR Open Innovation
6) The identification and staffing of a Principle Investigator that has related military and business expertise to runs the partner’s customer discovery and solution enhancement programs
7) Expertise on applying for U.S. Federal innovation programs
8) Access to U.S.-based engineering resources that can be appropriately employed should there be a needed enhancement or modification to their product
9) Advisory on establishing their U.S. domestic presence in company formation
10) A full cybersecurity review of their infrastructure to adhere to stringent security standards

In consideration of the time required and cost of relocating to the U.S., a requirement of other incubator/accelerator programs, VFTech has created a program that is mostly virtual.  By doing this, with minimal staffing and overheard, VFTech can return significantly more of the gross innovation funds to the partner technologies (and thus capability into the hands of the warfighter).  VFTech uses a commercial tool for instruction and coaching with partner companies.
Specifically for the purposes or the Air Force SBIR Open Innovation topic, VFTech intends to accept technology companies into the accelerator that are directly aligned with AFWERX identified User Needs and Focus Areas.  With 1,000’s of companies creating breakthrough technology outside the borders of the U.S., there is high probability some of the Air Force’s most pressing needs could be satisfied better, faster, or cheaper through accelerated/enhanced foreign technology.
Legal Assessment:  VFTech understands that the inclusion and/or partnering of foreign technology companies may be scrutinized.  VFTech will guarantee full compliance with § 121.702(c)(8)) – License Agreements, ensuring that the foreign companies and their U.S. partners are not affiliated.  The U.S. company will “accept all profit and bears the risk of loss from the relationship.”  As well, in accordance with SBIR Policy Directive 6(a)(4), for both Phase I and Phase II, VFTech will ensure that 100% of all research/research and development work is performed in the United States.
Risk Assessment: The managing partner in VFTech is a badged and credentialed counterintelligence (CI) veteran who still receives classified CI briefings on industrial espionage and subterfuge.  VFTech is acutely aware of the risks involved with bringing foreign technology to the DoD.  As such, VFTech is currently focusing its outreach efforts on companies that are resident in allied nations, preferring to