At least some – although I’d confidently suggest the number should probably be much higher – are aware of the technology and innovation associated with the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane. More than 3,700 civilian workers and 2,000 contractors contribute to an estimated $1.5 billion in annual spending.
A season two IN Chamber podcast outlines some of the partnership opportunities for businesses, while this recent Inside INdiana Business video highlights the latest from the southern Indiana base.
Crane’s history dates to 1941. Far newer (established in 2017) and likely less familiar is a United States Air Force program titled AFWERX. In its own words, it is the “innovation catalyst of the Air Force – bringing ideas and innovation together to enable the Air Force to build smarter, stronger and more agile solutions in partnership with start-ups like yours.”
AFWERX does not directly fund projects, but it identifies sources (including Small Business Innovation Research awards) that could be of assistance. It works with small and large companies, other service branches and the academic world on various initiatives.
- “We’re connecting the greatest minds across our country with American airmen to keep America safe.”
- “Uniformed or civilian, our Air Force is powered by creative, stubborn, amazing people, people who won’t take no for an answer.”
- “We don’t just break barriers; we smash them.”
AFWERX accomplishes its mission “with an approach that combines start-up urgency with the largest pool of motivated talent in the world to uncover opportunities to improve Air Force capabilities, connect and engage the right stakeholders and facilitate outcomes.”
In our words, the Air Force appears to be ready to do business on a variety of challenges. Why shouldn’t Hoosier entrepreneurs be part of the winning formula?
