Apply to the Oregon UAS Accelerator
Propel Your UAS or URS Innovation to New Heights with Over $165,000 in Value as part of the Oregon UAS Accelerator's Next Cohort.
The Oregon UAS Accelerator is now accepting applications for its next cohort. This groundbreaking program is designed to accelerate innovation in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and position Pendleton, Oregon as a premier hub for UAS, UAV, and URS development.
Our comprehensive 12-week program offers unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators to bring their cutting-edge ideas to market and shape the future of autonomous systems. Accepted participants in the accelerator receive a $40,000 non-dilutive grant, access to the world-class facilities of the Pendleton UAS Test Range, expert business & technical mentorship, and so much more – Apply today and let us provide the launchpad for your UAS venture to soar!
MARCH 2025
COHORT BEGINS
JANUARY 6, 2025
APPLICATION DEADLINE
PENDLETON, OR
LOCATION
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Program Benefits
Over $165,000 in total benefits with No Cost, No Equity, No Fees. Our sole mission is to maximize your chances of success.
Here's what you'll receive:
$40,000 Non-Dilutive Grant:
Each selected participant will receive a $40,000 non-dilutive grant to fuel their growth, product development, and business operations.
Extensive Flight Testing Support
Participants will have access to $75,000 worth of range flight days and staff support for up to 180 days, enabling comprehensive testing and validation of their UAS solutions.
State-of-the-Art Flight Test Pad
Participants will have access to a 50' x 50' flight test pad, including power, water, and high-speed fiber access for up to 180 days, enabling comprehensive testing and validation. $2,250
Dedicated Intern Support
Participants will have access to $75,000 worth of range flight days and staff support for up to 180 days, enabling comprehensive testing and validation of their UAS solutions.
Regulatory Assistance
Access to $5,000 worth of services for obtaining platform-specific Certificates of Authorization (COAs) and/or Pen & Ink access to existing COAs, facilitating regulatory compliance.
On-Site Immersion Experience
Participants will be on-site in Pendleton for 12 weeks, immersed in the local community, housing, hospitality, and infrastructure, 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.
Access to Flight Support Assets
Participants will have no-cost access to available flight support assets, including mission control equipment, mobile command centers, 3D printers, and more, enhancing their operational capabilities.
Dedicated Office & Work Space
Participants will receive complimentary office and workshop space, valued at $4,500, providing a conducive environment for their operations.
Access to Pendleton UAS Range:
The Oregon UAS Accelerator offers participants unparalleled access to the Pendleton UAS Range (PUR), one of the nation's leading UAS testing and development centers.
Expert Mentorship
Our program connects participants with industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs who provide invaluable guidance throughout the 12-week accelerator.
Pitch Camp Finale
The program culminates in an intensive three-day Pitch Camp, designed to refine and perfect your investor pitch and prepare you for our investor events.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Eligibility Criteria
The Oregon UAS Accelerator seeks innovative startups poised to revolutionize the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) industry. To be considered for our program, applicants must meet the following criteria. These criteria ensure that selected participants are well-positioned to benefit from our program resources and contribute to Oregon's growing UAS industry.
If your startup meets these requirements, we encourage you to apply and join our next cohort of innovators:
Technical Readiness
Demonstrate a product or technology beyond basic concept stage. Needs to have a Technical Readiness Level (TRL) higher than 5.
Dedicated Leadership
Commit to full-time participation in the accelerator program. This means each participant must have a founder or key team member dedicated to working full-time on-site throughout the program's duration.
Market Potential
Offer an innovative UAS solution with significant market opportunity. Need to be able to demonstrate a viable and innovative UAS-related product, service, or technology with significant market potential.
Growth Mindset
Show enthusiasm for growth and active program engagement. Exhibit a strong commitment to growth and a willingness to actively engage in all aspects of the accelerator program.
Funding Strategy
Actively pursue funding to support business growth. You should be actively engaged in raising capital for your business.
In-Person Participation
We know, this is redundant, but we want to be sure you are ready to be on-site in Oregon for the duration of our program.
Oregon UAS Accelerator
Application Process
The Oregon UAS Accelerator is committed to fostering innovation in the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and unmanned robotic systems (URS) industries. Our rigorous selection process ensures that we identify and support the most promising startups that can leverage our unique resources, including access to the Pendleton UAS Range.
Once you request your application, these are the next steps in the selection process:
Complete Application
Initial Application Submission
- Submit your completed application form through our online portal.
- Provide supporting company information, including your business plan and pitch deck.
- Deadline: January 6, 2025.
Business Evaluation
Comprehensive Review and Evaluation
- Our proprietary system conducts an automated initial screening.
- Expert panels perform in-depth business, technical, and range capability assessments.
- Applicants may be contacted for clarification or additional information.
- Successful applicants are invited to proceed to the final stage.
Interview & Selection
Group Interview and Final Selection
- Shortlisted applicants pitch their business to key members of our business, technical, and range teams.
- This interactive session allows for direct Q&A between applicants and our team.
- Businesses are scored based on our proprietary algorithm, mentor evaluations, and pitch performance.
- The selection committee reviews all scores and discusses each candidate.
- Final selection of up to 7 participants is made based on program fit, range utilization potential, coach-ability, and commitment to on-site participation.
We were able to accelerate the development from what would have taken 6-8 months down to 3 months.
— Ian Annase, Zing Drone Solutions
When they talk about 'Proven in Pendleton,' it is a real thing, and I'd encourage you to give it a shot.
— Arinze Eze, Aerial Mechanica
Absolutely top notch, I can't put emphasis on this enough: 'extremely easy to work with.'
— Brian Riese, Phenix Solutions
The interns provided made an impossibly important impact.
— Sean Ward, Cyphra Autonomy
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Accelerator Alumni
