applicants

Client Services

The assistance DSTA provides is specifically designed to accelerate the formation and growth of early-stage defense and security technology companies and enhance their chances for success.  DSTA’s client companies receive specialized assistance with the following:

• Market opportunities-market identification and access to customers within the defense and security industry.
• Prototype and product development-assistance with technology development and preparing products for market
• Access to capital-guidance on how to obtain the capital needed to encourage company growth and introductions to sources of financing and funding, including the DSTA Fusion Grant Program
• Business planning-expert advice on planning the successful growth of security and defense businesses
• Connection to a national network - introductions to an extensive network of valuable contacts in the defense and security industry.

The experienced DSTA staff and “subject matter experts” provide direct assistance to client companies.  Key DSTA team members hold appropriate security clearances.  In addition to one-on-one assistance, DSTA offers seminars, briefings, and other programs featuring knowledgeable speakers from the military industry.

DSTA will serve companies on a “resident” and “affiliate” basis.  Most clients will receive assistance as “residents” of DSTA.  They will locate in office and/or lab space at the DSTA facility in Fayetteville and have access to all the services and assistance that DSTA provides.

Other clients will be part of DSTA as “affiliates.”  Affiliates will not be located in the DSTA facility and will receive a more limited set of services.  The affiliate program is open to early-stage defense and security technology companies in North Carolina.

Application Process

To join either the resident or affiliate program, you must complete the application process and be selected for admission.

Companies seeking DSTA membership must complete the following application process:

• Submit:
  • A completed DSTA application and
  • A business plan or similar document that includes a description of the product or service, intellectual property, target markets and customers, sales plan, revenue model, financial resources and needs, and the professional background and expertise of the management team.
• Meet with DSTA management for an informal discussion of the proposed business model and to learn the value that DSTA can provide.

After receiving a completed application, the DSTA Management Team will review the application based upon our selection criteria.  Qualified applicants will be invited to interview with the DSTA Management Team.  The goal of the interview is to determine the candidate’s fit with DSTA.  Preliminary acceptance into DSTA is subject to review by the DSTA Application Review Committee.

DSTA seeks applications from early-stage defense and security technology companies.  Companies must be for-profit and be developing a product or service for the military and/or commercial marketplace.  (i.e. “dual use”)

Applications are evaluated by DSTA based on the following selection criteria:

• Business Potential
• Technical merit and commercial viability
• Quality of management team
• Ability to utilize DSTA services
• Economic impact on the community

Click here to apply online