DraperSPARX™

 

Supercharge progress, redefine the future!

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Mission Statement

Supercharging innovation and defense by delivering advanced warfighter technologies to government stakeholders for maximum operational impact.

DraperSPARX™ selects and supports partners who excel at providing world-class technologies to the government ecosystem. It’s a unique initiative aimed at bolstering national security by integrating cutting-edge technology from small businesses and startups into the Department of Defense (DoD) and other U.S. government agencies. This exclusive program connects forward-thinking companies with Draper’s seasoned technical experts, advanced labs, facilities, and venture capital partners. Those who are invited to join undergo a thorough selection process, and successful participants are eligible to collaborate on government projects, rapidly addressing federal government challenges with innovative solutions.

We look for companies:

  • With a focus on developing emerging and disruptive technologies for national security; and
  • Emergent tech startups with OTAs, SBIRs or STTRs with government clients; or
  • Companies referred to Draper by trusted sources including the Department of Defense, Defense Innovation Unit, the Werx community and others.

Your Benefits as our Partner

We offer a range of partnership opportunities for organizations of all types and sizes—from organizations already bringing disruptive new technology to the market to organizations just getting started. A dedicated DraperSPARX™ representative will work with potential partners.

  • Accelerate adoption of validated emergent technology
  • Strengthen the defense industrial base by fostering innovation and increasing the safety and security of the nation
  • Gain access to classified and unclassified lab facilities, subject matter experts and networks
  • Be introduced to viable government entities
  • Mitigate risk on your investments through working with Draper, a company that has demonstrated expertise with innovative technology
  • Invest in our strategic alliances with cutting-edge companies that harness the power of Draper’s world-class lab facilities and industry-leading experts
  • Secure your competitive advantage by backing the innovations that shape tomorrow
  • Portfolio companies may have potential for government revenue through Draper partnership on contracts

DraperSPARX™ FAQs

Capability Providers must operate in one of DraperSPARX™’s 21 focus sectors, have a potential DoD or USG contract, and pass our due diligence process.

Companies with a DoD contract should request an application via their contracting officer. Those with a USG contract should have their officer contact DraperSPARX™ Managing Director at DraperSparx@draper.com.

Visit sam.gov  to explore and respond to contract opportunities from DoD stakeholder.

After applying, the DraperSPARX™ team conducts a rigorous review of risks, including financial, operational, and national security concerns, before making a final decision.

The invitation email includes a link to register on our portal, set up a secure login, and provide your company details.

Yes, after your initial registration, contact our team to add more users to your company profile.

No, registration gives you portal access. You must then submit an application to join the DraperSPARX program.

DraperSPARX does not publish a list of approved providers.

Profiles highlight key features to help facilitate connections. They are visible to DoD stakeholders but not other providers.

Log in to update your profile and upload attachments visible to DraperSPARX™ staff.

The application can be saved and completed over multiple sessions before submission.

You’ll see an on-screen confirmation and can track your application’s status on the homepage.

While the process may take 4 weeks or longer, it varies by case.

Upon approval, you will be introduced to your Draper contact and can start using Draper’s resources.

Participants must update their application annually, or whenever relevant changes occur.

Only Draper, DoD personnel, and DoD via a secure system.

We can discuss ways to improve eligibility unless classified information is involved.

These are nations posing national security risks, especially related to IP and supply chains. The list is on the application.

Yes, draft applications can be deleted before submission.

No, but contact our team if you need to correct an error and submit the new application if necessary.

Yes. You may reapply if previous risk factors have been eliminated or mitigated.

Partners include AFWERX, Army Futures Command, Defense Innovation Unit, NavalX, U.S. Special Operations Command, and SpaceWERX.

Confidential business information is generally exempt from FOIA disclosure.

Yes, by using a distribution list or shared email. Shared logins are not allowed.

Capital Provider FAQ’s

Capital Providers, including venture capital firms, can contact us through the below contact us form and an application will be sent to you.

The DraperSPARX™ digital platform is expected to go live by early 2025. A link will be posted on the website when available.

Any Capital Provider with available capital actively investing in the defense tech space can apply.

Approved participants can collaborate with Draper’s technical SMEs and access Draper’s lab resources to supercharge their product roadmap and secure government contracts faster.

Yes, annual recertification is required. Participants must also report any changes in their application information as they occur.

Only Draper employees, DoD officials, and DoD support contractors via a secure GovCloud IL4 system can access your information. NDAs and other safety measures are in place to help ensure your information remains confidential.

Rejections are based on a due diligence process intended to identify risks, especially those related to national security. We can discuss how to improve you eligibility for future applications.

These are countries that pose national security risks, particularly concerning intellectual property and supply chains. The list is on the application.

Yes. Companies can reapply if they have mitigated the risks identified in the previous application.

Partners include Army Futures Command, the Defense Innovation Unit, U.S. Special Operations Command, the Werx community including AFWERX, DEFENSEWERX, NAVALX, SOFWERX, and others.

Confidential business information is generally exempt from disclosure under FOIA.

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