Hyperspace Challenge, a startup accelerator program for the U.S. Space Force hosted in Albuquerque, plans to partner with the U.S. Space Force's Rapid Capabilities Office for its 2023 program that's currently accepting initial interest forms.
The accelerator's program this year will focus on technologies that could make space assets — like satellites, orbiting stations and ground communication units — more resilient and responsive to threats, according to a Wednesday news release.
The form can be accessed online; it closes Aug. 15.
The goal of the Hyperspace Challenge, created in 2018, is to boost collaboration between startup companies, universities and the government for different space technologies. It's directed by CNM Ingenuity, a nonprofit entity under Central New Mexico Community College for entrepreneurship, innovation and skills training.
The Hyperspace Challenge wants to expand its reach of companies this year, the release stated — those working in industries including automotive, manufacturing and cybersecurity, as well as in traditional aerospace and defense.
"This is not necessarily your typical space cohort: We are interested in companies with advanced technologies that may or may not be operating in the space industry at all now," Matthew Fetrow, the communications manager for the Rapid Capabilities Office, said in a statement. "We've already said the future of space includes everyone. That future is now."
While previous iterations of the program were aimed at accelerating specific businesses, Kathy Steen, senior program manager at Hyperspace Challenge, told Albuquerque Business First that this year's program will be more focused on "partnership acceleration."
"That's why working with the Rapid Capabilities Office is important this year — it allows more direct communication and thoughtful conversations between companies and federal entities about different mission needs," she said.
"What's exciting this year is that the Rapid Capabilities Office is looking to cultivate relationships with companies that have solutions that they can rapidly deploy to meet their mission needs," Steen said.
The U.S. Space Force Rapid Capabilities Office is headquartered at Kirtland Air Force Base just south of Albuquerque. It was established through the National Defense Authorization Act in fiscal year 2018 in order to "develop and deliver operationally dominant space capabilities at the speed of warfighting relevance," according to its website.
Per the Wednesday release, the Rapid Capabilities Office is looking for tech products that can serve three purposes, including:
- Increasing space visibility and awareness.
- Advancing space analysis and vehicle autonomy.
- Increasing space vehicle lifespan and maneuverability.
Formal applications for the 2023 accelerator cohort are set to open in late August and close Sept. 8 after a series of informational webinars in August. Then, the 2023 Hyperspace Challenge program is set to kick off in October with pre-programming services, followed by a two-day, in-person summit held in Albuquerque on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2.
Last year's summit featured collaborative events and several panels — including one on how startup companies can make money in a growing space industry.
