Oregon UAS Innovation Challenge
Oregon’s Launchpad for Unmanned Systems Breakthroughs
Welcome to the Oregon UAS Innovation Challenge—an immersive, statewide program designed to discover, elevate, and accelerate the most promising unmanned aerial and robotic systems startups and innovators. Drawing on Oregon’s deep industry expertise, nationally recognized flight-test infrastructure, and commitment to inclusive economic growth, we empower both emerging and established teams to turn visionary ideas into real-world impact.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
What is the Innovation Challenge?
The Oregon UAS Innovation Challenge is not your typical accelerator. This competitive, milestone-driven experience brings together 25–30 of the brightest UAS and robotics startups, at every stage from concept to commercialization, for world-class curriculum, mentorship, and a series of competitive pitch events culminating at the Oregon UAS Innovation Showcase in Pendleton, OR.
Here, innovators compete for access to technical resources, follow-on funding, and statewide visibility.
OREGON UAS ACCELERATOR
Who Should Apply for the Oregon Innovation Challenge.
UAS and Robotics Innovators
Whether you’re early-stage (TRL 3+) or flight-ready, if you’re developing unmanned, aerial, or autonomous solutions in fields like wildfire resilience, precision agriculture, defense, logistics, environmental monitoring, or infrastructure, this Challenge is for you.
Diverse & Rural Talent
We actively seek founders from rural, tribal, and underserved communities. Our Challenge is structured to increase access for Oregonians from every background and location.
Out-of-State & Global Teams
Ready to put down roots or expand into Oregon? Our Challenge offers a “soft landing” and direct connections to Business Oregon, major test ranges, and a vibrant ecosystem.
OREGON INNOVATION CHALLENGE
Program Timeline & Format
Applications Open: October 1 – December 4, 2025
Hybrid Accelerator: January 13 – April 4, 2026
Hybrid Pitch Event: April 14–18, 2026
Innovation Summit & Finals: May 2026
All Challenge Activity & Grant Disbursement Ends: June 30, 2026
Phase I: Innovation Curriculum (Hybrid)
Start your journey with hands-on learning and expert guidance.
Engage in dynamic classes led by industry leaders, covering business models, market strategies, technical validation, and navigating regulations in our hybrid class format.
Connect with accomplished mentors in weekly sessions, access SBIR/federal grant support, and receive practical coaching as you refine your pitch and roadmap.
Value:
Unlock knowledge, personalized mentorship, and vital skills to set your team apart, building the strong foundation required for success in unmanned systems innovation.
Phase II: Challenge Pitch Event (Hybrid)
Showcase your progress to real investors and sector experts.
Teams that complete Phase I advance to a high-energy, competitive pitch event. Impress a panel of investors, industry leaders, and technical judges with your vision in a fast-paced setting that delivers actionable feedback.
Opportunity:
Gain investor exposure, sharpen your pitch in a real-world environment, and compete for advancement to further phases.
All teams completing this phase will earn a $5,000 non-dilutive sub-grant provided through Business Oregon.
Phase III: Implementation & Test Readiness
Advance your innovation from plan to real-world impact.
Top performers move on to Phase III, an intensive experience with dedicated mentor support, focused feedback, and hands-on test plan development.
Develop, submit, and defend your protocol while preparing for flight validation at Oregon’s world-class facilities.
Value:
Successfully completing this phase unlocks the opportunity to present and compete for top awards at the Oregon UAS Innovation Showcase.
Phase IV: Summit & Awards (In-Person)
Step onto the stage and compete for Oregon’s top innovation honors.
All finalists will pitch live to leading investors and a packed audience at the Oregon UAS Innovation Showcase.
Every finalist earns exclusive access to flight test packages, technical development resources, investor networking, and strategic exposure.
Each finalist will also receive an additional $4,000 non dilutive sub-grant and an additional $1,000 travel stipend.
This is your chance to launch or scale your venture with both the spotlight and the support you need to break through in unmanned systems innovation.
OREGON INNOVATION CHALLENGE
Why Oregon? Why Now?
Oregon is the ideal destination for UAS and robotics startups ready to transform ambitious concepts into real-world impact. At the heart of the state’s innovation ecosystem lies the Pendleton UAS Test Range, offering over 14,000 square miles of controlled airspace, the largest of its kind nationwide, allowing unparalleled opportunities for real-world flight testing and validation. Innovators thrive in Oregon thanks to deep collaboration among top aerospace manufacturers, defense leaders, research universities, and government partners, creating a dynamic environment where bold ideas are nurtured and accelerated from prototype to deployment.
With a proven legacy of results, the Oregon UAS Accelerator has already in our 1st biennium propelled startups, fueling more than $3 million in investment, delivering over 120 high-wage jobs, and cultivating an alumni network invested in Oregon’s future.
Ready to launch your venture in Oregon’s thriving UAS sector?
Click “Apply” and join the next wave of innovators shaping the future.
Submit Your Application
Submit online between October 1 and December 4, 2025
Your Business & Innovation
Articulate your business plan, technical innovation, and commitment to the program.
Selection Process
Selection is merit-based, with priority for Oregon-based or Oregon-committed founders.
Who Should Apply?
If you are a UAS or robotics founder (TRL 3+), Oregon-based or planning to relocate, and ready to build, test, or commercialize breakthrough solutions in wildfire, agriculture, defense, logistics, and more, this program supports you.
We’re looking for startups that:
- Have a product or technology at TRL 3 or higher.
- Are committed to full participation for the duration of the program.
- Offer innovative solutions with significant market potential in the UAS or URS industry.
- Are actively pursuing funding and eager to engage with investors.
Application Process
- Submit Your Application:
Provide your business information, plan and current pitch deck (if applicable) through our online application. - Business Evaluation:
Our team of business and technical experts will perform a comprehensive review of your application. - Initial Contact:
If necessary, our team will contact you for any questions we have regarding your application or innovation. - Selection:
The upcoming challenge will be divided into 2 TRL tracks, Pioneer (3-5) and Proven (6 and above). The most promising companies / innovators in each of these tracks will be invited to tack part in the Oregon UAS Innovation Challenge. We are accepting a minimum of 25 participants.