Griffiss Institute Announces HUSTLE Defense Accelerator Winners

Rome, NY- Griffiss Institute revealed the exceptional achievements of the eight tech companies who completed the HUSTLE Defense Accelerator program in Rome this summer and celebrated the prize winners of this third cohort during the HUSTLE Pitch Day held on Thursday, August 15th.

Griffiss Institute’s HUSTLE Defense Accelerator, a rigorous 12-week immersive professional development program for emerging tech startups focused on national security, has gained significant momentum with support from its distinguished partners– Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Empire State Development (ESD), and National Grid. The AFRL science and technology community has rallied around the opportunity to attract new tech companies to the region, educating HUSTLE teams on aligning their technologies with national defense needs, offering technical expertise and networking opportunities to discover collaborators across the AFRL enterprise. ESD has demonstrated resolute commitment to sponsoring seed capital investments and support from its statewide ecosystem of entrepreneurship programs. And the generous financial support provided by National Grid further empowers these emerging companies to drive technological breakthroughs, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the local economy.

We are thrilled to unveil the extraordinary winners of the 2024 HUSTLE cohort, each poised to revolutionize their industries with innovative solutions and groundbreaking technology!

Emerge Track:
Marhold and Triarii AI have both emerged victorious, each securing a remarkable $25,000 investment to supercharge their growth and bring their visionary ideas to life! The incredible Artificial Brain has claimed the coveted top prize of $100,000, setting the stage for a game-changing leap in the world of AI!

Elevate Track:
Archangel also took home an impressive $100,000, positioning itself as a key player in the tech landscape. And in a thrilling finale, Drone City soared to victory, capturing the grand prize of $250,000! This monumental achievement will empower them to push the boundaries of innovation in the drone industry.

As these trailblazing winners embark on their journeys, we eagerly anticipate the impact they will make, transforming ideas into reality and shaping the future of technology. Stay tuned for what’s next from this incredible group of innovators.

HUSTLE Pitch Day offered a captivating glimpse into the trailblazing tech companies in the 2024 cohort, who pitched their revolutionary ideas and plans to scale their ventures in the Mohawk Valley. The event was not only a platform to showcase the culmination of the 2024 HUSTLE Defense Accelerator program but also a festive celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship featuring all local refreshments and valuable networking opportunities.

“I am immensely proud of the eight exceptional teams that have completed the HUSTLE program this summer. They have demonstrated unparalleled creativity and resilience in developing solutions that will enhance our national security. These companies are not just growing businesses; they are building the future of technology in the Mohawk Valley,” said Heather Hage, President & CEO of Griffiss Institute. “We are excited to continue supporting their journeys and are confident they will achieve remarkable success in the years to come.”

“This summer has been a transformative period for the HUSTLE teams. Their dedication and innovative breakthroughs have set a new standard for what can be achieved in national security technology. The collaboration and spirit of innovation that these teams have shown are truly inspiring. As they move forward, I believe they will not only impact the industry but also pave the way for future innovators to follow,” said Seth Mulligan, Senior Director of Innovation & Partnerships at the Griffiss Institute.

“The accomplishments of these dynamic teams are a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance, as their work represents the latest technological advancements in the Mohawk Valley,” said Hope Knight, Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner. “By supporting competitions like HUSTLE, we continue to invest the region’s innovation economy and position New York State as a leader in national security technology. Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to all the companies who participated in this cohort.”

“Our commitment to fostering innovation and growth in Oneida County is stronger than ever, and the HUSTLE Defense Accelerator is a shining example of what can be achieved when we invest in our future,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “These startups are driving economic development and creating opportunities that will benefit our region for generations. We are proud to be a part of their journey and look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make in the Mohawk Valley.”

“The HUSTLE Defense Accelerator embodies the very essence of innovation and collaboration. By equipping these startups with the tools and resources they need, we are ensuring that the future of defense technology is both cutting-edge and robust,” said Dr. Michael Hayduk, Deputy Director of AFRL Information Directorate. “The progress made by these visionary entrepreneurs is a testament to the strength of public-private partnerships, and I am excited to see how their innovations will contribute to the future of our nation’s security.”

“National Grid is committed to driving economic growth and supporting innovation at every stage. The startups emerging from the HUSTLE program are not just businesses; they are the catalysts for a more secure and technologically advanced future. By providing early-stage investments, we are helping these companies to take crucial steps toward realizing their full potential. Their success will ultimately contribute to the vitality of our local economies and the broader national landscape,” said Alberto Bianchetti, National Grid’s regional director of customer and community engagement.

The HUSTLE Defense Accelerator is an elite and immersive 12-week training academy for seed-stage tech startups pushing artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, quantum science, and unmanned aircraft system solutions. Eight startups were chosen to pitch for HUSTLE Pitch Day because of their validated potential to elevate U.S. national security and economic competitiveness.

The Emerge program track welcomed emerging pre-seed companies, while the Elevate program track included more advanced seed-stage ventures.

The teams for cohort 3 consisted of (in alphabetical order):