Applications are now open for the MassChallenge U.S. Early Stage Security & Resiliency Program, a no-equity accelerator supporting founders building transformative solutions in security, infrastructure, defense, and emergency response.
About the Program
MassChallenge’s Security & Resiliency track is designed for startups developing technologies across:
- Resilient Industry & Logistics: AI-enabled logistics, predictive maintenance, climate-adaptive infrastructure
- Secure Communications & Infrastructure: quantum encryption, secure edge computing, IoT security
- Human Health & Performance: augmented reality, cognitive assistance, human-machine teaming
- Energy & Power Systems: advanced batteries, smart grids, autonomous power generation
- Emergency Response & Humanitarian Ops: AI-driven situational awareness, rapid deployment, autonomous logistics
- Naval & Maritime: underwater vehicles, maritime cybersecurity, satellite threat detection
The program connects startups with mentors, defense partners, and innovation leaders from public and private sectors. One recent MassChallenge alum secured a $17M Series A after building dual-use partnerships through the NATO DIANA collaboration, now working with global defense and energy leaders to modernize grid infrastructure.
Who Should Apply
Startups with:
- Less than $3M in trailing 12-month revenue
- Under $5M in equity funding
- Strong traction through customer interviews, pre-orders, pilots, website engagement, or preclinical progress for life sciences/biotech startups
Founders solving critical problems in secure communications & infrastructure, humanitarian operations, energy systems, health & performance, resilient logistics, and maritime security are encouraged to apply.
What Startups Can Expect
- Zero-equity model: Keep 100% ownership while accessing world-class support
- Global network: 6,000+ mentors, corporate leaders, and investors
- 1:1 industry-matched mentorship: Guidance on product, GTM, finance, and leadership
- Kickoff & roadshow: In-person sessions in Boston (3-4 days) and Dallas (3-4 days) to connect with partners, investors, and mentors
- Founder development: Optional executive coaching, leadership retreats, and racial equity programs
- Collaborative community: A network of like-minded founders tackling global challenges
Program Timeline
- June 17, 2025 – Applications open
- July 3, 2025 – Early Action Deadline
- July 15, 2025 – General Application Deadline
- August 11–15, 2025 – Live Pitch Judging (virtual)
- August 19–22, 2025 – Cohort selections and acceptance confirmations
- September 16–18, 2025 – Program kickoff in Boston, MA (mandatory, in-person)
- October 21–23, 2025 – Mid-program roadshow in Boston, MA (mandatory, in-person)
- November 13, 2025 – End of program celebration in Boston, MA (optional, in-person)
The program culminates in connections with potential partners and investors to accelerate commercialization and growth. MassChallenge does not take equity on admittance. Optional investments are available from the MassChallenge fund at program end, and Future Africa may invest pre-seed or seed checks of $250,000 - $500,000 through its diligence process.
Mentors and community members
Participants gain access to experienced mentors including Dan Slagen (CMO, Tomorrow.io), Randy Brandenburg (Senior Vice President, Proteus Ocean Group), Alexandru Dan (CEO & Founder, TVL Tech), Taona Enriquez (CEO & Founder, Space Coast Solutions), Dr. Brien Flewelling (Director of Strategic Development, ExoAnalytics Solutions), and Tom Fournier (Chief of Operations & Strategic Partnerships, National HERO Initiative and AI MINDSystems Foundation).
About MassChallenge
Since 2009, MassChallenge has helped founders turn bold ideas into ventures with global impact. Alumni have raised over $16B, created 77,000 jobs, and achieved a 70% survival rate.
Apply link: https://masschallenge.org/united-states-early-stage/