OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Accelerating the Future of Unmanned Systems
The Oregon UAS Accelerator is dedicated to positioning Pendleton, Oregon as a global hub for UAS innovation. Through world-class resources, strategic mentorship, and cutting-edge testing capabilities, we empower startups to transform their visions into market-ready solutions. Our mission is to drive the future of unmanned systems while fostering a sustainable and collaborative ecosystem.
Oregon UAS Accelerator
Spotlight on Upcoming Events
Explore the Oregon UAS Accelerator's upcoming events designed to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and connect industry leaders, investors, and innovators. From live pitch showcases to networking opportunities, these events are your gateway to the future of unmanned systems technology.
Drinks & Drones
Date: May 21, 2025
Location: Oregon UAS Accelerator
What It Is:
Drinks and Drones is an informal networking event designed to bring together industry professionals, innovators, investors, and enthusiasts in a relaxed setting. The event features a special guest speaker, Robert Keszeg, founder of WWAI, who will share insights on harnessing AI for practical applications in unmanned systems.
Pendleton Innovator Showcase
Date: May 29 - 30, 2025
Location: Wildhorse Casino, Pendleton, OR
The Pendleton Innovator Showcase celebrates the achievements of our Spring 2025 cohort. This exclusive event provides a platform for innovators to present their groundbreaking UAS solutions while fostering collaboration and visibility within the industry.
Pendleton Investor Round-Up
Date: September 10, 2025
Location: The Vert Auditorium, 480 SW Dorion Ave, Pendleton, OR 97801
The Pendleton Investor Round-Up is a premier event where startups pitch their innovative UAS solutions live to over 25 investors and strategic partners. This high-profile gathering is the culmination of the Oregon UAS Accelerator program, showcasing the cutting-edge technologies developed by our cohort members.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Accelerator Program Overview
Our intensive 12-week program equips UAS startups with essential knowledge, skills, and connections to thrive in this innovative industry. The curriculum provides a holistic learning experience through four key components:
Pitch Preparation
Mastering the Art of Investor Presentations
Develop a compelling narrative and pitch deck that captivates investors. Learn to articulate your value proposition and business model effectively, positioning your startup for successful fundraising.
Business Fundamentals
Navigating the Business Landscape
Gain expert insights on key business topics specific to the UAS industry. Acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to build a strong foundation for your startup's growth and long-term success.
Grant Writing Essentials
Securing Non-Dilutive Funding
Learn strategies to identify relevant grants, craft compelling proposals, and navigate the application process. Maximize your chances of securing vital financial support for your UAS venture.
Technical Mentorship
Cutting-Edge UAS Solutions
Receive targeted expertise from industry leaders addressing your cohort's specific needs. Accelerate your product development and stay ahead of the technological curve in the UAS field.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Program Benefits
With over $165,000 in total benefits, our program is designed to help established startups refine their technologies, validate their solutions, and secure funding. Here’s what sets us apart:
$40,000 Non-Dilutive Grant:
Covers your team’s expenses during the 12-week program in Pendleton, ensuring you can focus entirely on advancing your business.
Extensive Flight Testing Support
Access up to $75,000 worth of flight testing resources at the Pendleton UAS Test Range for 180 days.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Utilize advanced infrastructure such as flight test pads, secure storage facilities, mission control equipment, and more.
Regulatory Assistance
Receive $5,000 worth of services for obtaining Certificates of Authorization (COAs) or navigating compliance processes.
Expert Mentorship
Work with industry leaders and technical experts who provide guidance throughout the program.
Dedicated Intern Support
Gain access to skilled interns who contribute to your project’s success.
Immersive Experience
Spend 12 weeks on-site in Pendleton, fostering collaboration and networking opportunities.
Secure Storage Facilities
Included rental fees for a 20' x 8' secured storage space for up to 180 days, ensuring safe and secure storage of equipment and assets - $15,800.
Dedicated Work Space
Participants will receive access to complimentary workspace, valued at $4,500, providing a conducive environment for their operations.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Partners and Sponsors
Our success is built on strong partnerships. We're proud to collaborate with industry leaders, government agencies, and academic institutions that share our vision for advancing UAS innovation in Oregon. These valued partners play a crucial role in supporting our mission, providing resources, expertise, and opportunities for our startups. Their involvement helps drive innovation, create jobs, and position Oregon as a leader in the UAS industry.
Join us in shaping the future of unmanned systems technology.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Latest News and Updates
2025 Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge: Winners, Innovations & Event Recap
Discover the standout technologies and winners from the 2025 Proven in Pendleton Counter-UAS Challenge-where the future of drone defense took center stage.
Oregon UAS Accelerator Opens Applications for Summer 2025 Cohort
Applications are open for the Oregon UAS Accelerator Summer 2025 Cohort! Gain $165K+ in benefits, expert mentorship, and pitch live at the Pendleton Investor Round-Up.
Oregon UAS Accelerator Announces Spring 2025 Cohort, Driving Innovation in Unmanned Aerial Systems
Oregon UAS Accelerator selects five innovative startups for its Spring 2025 cohort, offering $165,000 in benefits to accelerate unmanned aerial systems development in Pendleton, Oregon.
Oregon UAS Accelerator Opens Applications for 2025 Cohort
Oregon UAS Accelerator Celebrates Resounding Success of Inaugural Pendleton Investor Round-Up
Oregon UAS Accelerator Unveils Pioneering Unmanned Systems Startups for Inaugural Cohort
Joseph Wyno Named Executive Director of Oregon UAS Accelerator
Applications Open for Inaugural Oregon UAS Accelerator Cohort
Oregon UAS Accelerator Launches to Propel UAS Innovation
The Oregon UAS Accelerator launches to propel innovation in the Unmanned Aircraft Systems market. With $2.25M in funding, it offers workspace, partnerships, facilities, expert guidance and $40K per company. Building on the success of the Pendleton UAS Range, the Accelerator empowers innovators with resources to bring UAS products to market. It aims to make Oregon a global hub for UAS development by advancing integration and unlocking the $9T projected market opportunity by 2050.
Applications for the first cohort open in March.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Business Concepts & Education
Building successful partnerships between UAS startups and established companies
Explore how UAS startups and established firms form powerful partnerships to scale innovation, share resources, and unlock new market opportunities in the drone industry.
The Lean Startup Methodology for UAS Companies
Explore how UAS companies can apply the Build-Measure-Learn cycle, tackle MVP challenges, and navigate customer validation in the drone industry. Learn to innovate faster and smarter with lean startup principles.
A Deep Dive into GTM Strategies For UAS Products
The Art of Authentic Selling in Startups: A Founder's Guide to Winning Investor Trust