Unveiling the Inaugural Cohort of the Innovation Corridor Defense Accelerator
Starburst is pleased to announce the inaugural cohort of the Innovation Corridor Defense Accelerator, our latest program designed to strengthen the aerospace, defense, and space ecosystem between Austin and San Antonio, Texas.
Operated by Starburst and supported by Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership and PTC, ICDA is centered in San Marcos and connects high-potential startups with investors, customers, industry partners, demonstration opportunities, and workforce organizations to support scalable revenue growth.
The program provides targeted support across customer development, scalable manufacturing, organizational preparation, ecosystem engagement, and tailored mentorship. Through Starburst’s global industry network and local ecosystem partners, selected companies will gain access to strategic guidance, demonstration facility partners, community events, expert workshops, and one-on-one support to accelerate their path to market.
The 2026 inaugural cohort brings together 10 startups developing technologies across drone detection, counter-UAS, 5G defense communications, quantum sensing, smart materials, metal 3D printing, unmanned systems, runway safety, and edge AI in orbit.
Meet the 2026 ICDA Cohort
AirSentinel: A real-time drone detection and low-altitude airspace awareness platform.
DETEC DIGITAL: A 5G equipment manufacturer focused on defense, government, and enterprise markets.
DETEQT: Specialized in diamond-on-chip quantum sensing for magnetic field intelligence.
Lumi Strain: Develops smart skin technology enabling structures to sense strain.
SOLID STATE METAL: Provides sustainable feedstock for affordable metal 3D printing.
Uncrewed Aerospace: Produces mass-producible, heavy-lift unmanned helicopters for civilian and defense markets.
OREYEON: Focused on real-time runway safety inspection for pavement damage and foreign object debris.
HELIX DEFENSE: Creates STING® programmable airburst munitions for Counter-UAS defense.
phinorm: Enhances counter-UAS sensor accuracy through advanced signal processing.
LITTLE PLACE LABS: Delivers real-time insights for critical missions using edge AI in orbit.
With this first cohort, ICDA aims to accelerate the growth of strategic technologies while reinforcing the Austin-San Antonio Innovation Corridor as a key hub for aerospace, defense, space, and dual-use innovation.
Starburst looks forward to supporting these companies as they scale, connect with the Texas innovation ecosystem, and bring mission-critical technologies closer to deployment.
