Our Stories
We Elevate TALENT
Our STEM programs are preparing the next generation of tech leaders. To date, they have served over 700 local students while also impacting 700,000+ students, 30,000 teachers, and 3,000 schools from across the nation. Over 1,250 collegiate and graduate interns gained critical hands-on experience, with 436 visiting faculty and fellows sharing their expertise, through hands-on exposure to defense careers. We’ve partnered with 251 leading colleges and universities to create a collaborative network of innovation hubs where ideas thrive.
Meet Payson!
Meet Madison Venables!
Meet Declan Reed!
We Empower INNOVATION
We’ve launched 51 tech startups and supported 40 business incubator clients, fueling the growth of promising ventures. Our focus on nurturing talent has resulted in 3 startups in residence committed to advancing defense technologies in the Mohawk Valley.
Last year, EMPEQ, a tech startup had the incredible opportunity to participate in the HUSTLE defense accelerator at Griffiss Institute, and it was a transformative experience. The program didn’t just provide resources; it gave them the support and community they needed to thrive. Thanks to HUSTLE, they secured a major contract with the Air Force and have continued to grow ever since.
“But what truly sets Griffiss Institute apart is the sense of community. Even after the program ended, the team has been there for us, offering guidance and support whenever we needed it. It’s a place where innovators lift each other up, where success is shared, and where lasting connections are made,” said Herbert Dwyer, former HUSTLE participant and 2023 winner.
Meet Jitesh Lalwani!
Founder & CEO of Artificial Brain, Jitesh Lalwani is a trailblazer in implementing quantum technologies for space exploration! His journey began with a bold vision to revolutionize how we understand the cosmos, and today, his work is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space. With the HUSTLE Defense Accelerator program, Jitesh’s company gained critical insights and connections that shaped Artificial Brain’s future. HUSTLE acts as a vital bridge between startups and Defense agencies, helping entrepreneurs like Jitesh refine their business models and access an expert network that would have been out of reach.
Meet Bradford Morse!
Bradford Morse, Co-founder of Archangel Imaging, is driving the development of advanced edge AI systems. While today’s machines are powerful tools, they often rely on vulnerable infrastructure and limited human oversight. To truly unlock the potential of hybrid teams, these machines need to operate dynamically and robustly at the edge—where the danger is greatest. Thanks to the HUSTLE Defense Accelerator, Archangel Imaging accelerated its technology to better serve soldiers in harm’s way and gained crucial connections with the test ranges used by their end users.
Meet Kelly Echols and Priscilla Cruz!
We Enable EXPERIENCE
Through 185 immersive tours, we’ve expanded collaborative opportunities, providing a firsthand look at the cutting-edge work happening within our ecosystem. Since opening the doors of the Innovare Advancement Center in the Griffiss Business Technology Park in 2021, we are proud to have welcomed over 15,838 guests. By hosting over 350 events, we’ve strengthened our commitment to fostering deep connections, bringing together innovators, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to advance disruptive technologies and innovation.
Meet Dominic!
Dominic is a freshman at West Virginia University with dreams as big as the stars! After his first STEM challenge competition, Dominic’s passion for science and space soared. He was inspired to get more involved with the scientists and engineers right here in the Griffiss Institute ecosystem. When the opportunity opened for a STEM intern position, Dominic jumped in, mentoring students eager to tackle science and math challenges. His favorite experience? The Principles of Flight camp, where students collaborated with top professionals from Griffiss Park!
Meet Michael Baker!
Michael Baker is a student with big dreams and even bigger determination. 🌟 Because of the Griffiss Institute, Michael discovered the collaborative opportunities he needed to connect, learn, and grow alongside other passionate students. Here, he found his purpose, fueling his passion for robotics and coding. Inspired by his experience, Michael has now encouraged all his friends to join him in starting a competitive robotics team. He’s more excited than ever to sharpen his coding skills and take on new challenges.
Your Impact
When you support the Griffiss Institute, you contribute to a legacy of innovation and excellence. Your unrestricted donations allow us to allocate funds to the areas where they are needed most, enhancing our programs and expanding our reach. This flexibility ensures that we can swiftly respond to emerging challenges and opportunities in education, technology, and economic development.
Donations to the Griffiss Institute are an investment in the next generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, driving both local economic growth and advancing national security. At Griffiss Institute, we do more than build pathways—we create bridges that connect the brightest minds in Upstate New York and across the nation to vital roles that enhance our nation’s defense and stimulate regional economic development.
Join Us on This Mission
Support from community members like you is vital. With your help, we can continue to inspire, support, and innovate from our headquarters in Upstate New York to impact the nation. Every donation fuels our mission and strengthens our ability to make a lasting difference.
Together, we can build a future where innovation knows no boundaries. Support the Griffiss Institute today—where it all starts, and where limitless potential is nurtured.
–Explore our map highlighting the various locations of Griffiss Institute programs. Each marked area represents a key program site, giving you an overview of our network and its geographical distribution.–
With your help we can continue to: Invest in innovation. Invest in national security. Invest in the future.
Picture a Coffee & Concepts session, where entrepreneurs and researchers brainstorm over coffee, or a Lunch & Learn where experts share insights while attendees engage in lively discussions. Tech Talks dive into cutting-edge technology, and our podcasts feature stories from trailblazers and visionaries, capturing the essence of innovation. These events are at the heart of our mission to foster a thriving community of innovators.