TLDR: The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has awarded a five-year, $600 million cooperative agreement to the Applied Research Institute (ARI) to manage the Defense Innovation OnRamp program. This initiative aims to accelerate national security innovation by integrating emerging commercial and dual-use technologies into the Department of Defense (DoD) and lowering barriers for non-traditional partners.
INDIANAPOLIS – The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has announced a significant five-year, $600 million cooperative agreement with the Applied Research Institute (ARI). This substantial award positions ARI to lead and manage the Defense Innovation OnRamp program, a critical initiative designed to accelerate national security innovation and facilitate the delivery of emerging technologies to the Department of Defense (DoD).
The core of this agreement involves the administration of the Defense Innovation OnRamp Hubs. These hubs are strategically designed to integrate physical locations with expert support, creating accessible pathways for commercial and dual-use technologies to enter the DoD ecosystem. The program aims to provide localized guidance on mission needs, prototyping, and engagement with the DoD for non-traditional and emerging partners.
Currently, OnRamp Hubs are established in Arizona, Hawaii, Kansas, Ohio, and Washington, with plans for expansion to include Kentucky, Minnesota, and Montana in the near future. The Applied Research Institute, leveraging its deep expertise in guiding and fast-tracking critical technology acquisition, will oversee this expanding network of physical hubs.
Beyond managing the hubs, ARI will administer a variety of DIU projects specifically focused on lowering the barriers to entry for commercial and dual-use technology into the Department of Defense. These projects encompass efforts to incubate and accelerate emerging companies, broaden commercialization initiatives with universities, and bolster DIU’s engagement with the national security innovation base.
Leslie Wolfe, Executive Vice President of Finance and Operations at the Applied Research Institute, emphasized the gravity of their new role, stating, “supporting DIU’s mission is not just business; it is a responsibility ARI takes seriously, turning strategic needs into operational realities.” David Roberts, CEO of the Applied Research Institute, further added, “ARI is honored to support DIU’s vision and leadership in accelerating defense innovation. This role represents a significant validation of our team’s commitment to advancing critical American innovation.” The collaborative effort between DIU and ARI is seen as providing essential tools for leadership, investing in the people, infrastructure, and innovation necessary for future success.
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The Defense Innovation Unit, established in August 2015, operates under the Department of Defense and reports directly to the Secretary of Defense. Its primary mission is to accelerate the U.S. military’s adoption of commercial technology. The Applied Research Institute is a neutral, third-party nonprofit organization dedicated to uniting innovators and powering innovation across the technology ecosystem.
