LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Feb. 20, 2025 -- Forge Institute, in partnership with the U.S. Air Force and Parallax Advanced Research, has launched Atomic Anvil, a pioneering initiative to accelerate national security innovation by connecting researchers, startups, and non-traditional entities with Department of Defense (DoD) mission partners. This program strengthens the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) by fostering rapid technology transfer and transition to meet critical defense challenges.
"Our long-standing collaboration with Forge Institute represents a crucial alliance in driving innovation for the modern warfighter," said Brigadier General Chad Bridges, Adjutant General of the Arkansas National Guard. "By combining diverse expertise, next generational technologies and lessons learned from the battlefield, we will develop the tools and strategies necessary to ensure our forces remain agile, prepared, and ahead of emerging threats."
Atomic Anvil strengthens the regional defense ecosystem through multiple approaches:
Connect – Industry Days, workshops, and guidance on navigating defense acquisition pathways, including SBIR/STTR, OTAs, and grants.
Innovate – Hands-on R&D sprints, access to Cyber & AI labs, paid internships, and technology assessments to refine and test emerging solutions.
Accelerate – Mentorship, defense compliance training, and participation in the Embers Xcelerator, a pre-accelerator program supporting early-stage ventures.
Atomic Anvil focuses on key defense technology areas, including defense manufacturing, photonics & directed energy, mobility & counter-drone tech, AI & cybersecurity, ISR, direct fires, critical minerals, and supply chain security.
"Arkansas has a rich history of contributing to our nation's defense, and the launch of Atomic Anvil by Forge Institute can serve to continue that legacy. By fostering collaboration across higher education, small businesses, and national security firms, this initiative is poised to help accelerate the development of critical technologies for our warfighters. I am proud to support efforts that strengthen our defense industrial base and create jobs in Arkansas while ensuring our state remains a leader in national security advancements," said U.S. Senator John Boozman.
Atomic Anvil collaborates with organizations like the Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center (ASBTDC), Arkansas Aerospace & Defense Alliance (AADA), and Arkansas APEX Accelerator to maximize impact. This initiative is funded through a grant from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) under the Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) No. FA8650-3-9325.
Forge Institute invites entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry leaders with innovative defense-relevant solutions to learn more and apply at www.forge.institute/atomic-anvil.
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