Bridging Academia, Industry, and the Dow: Developing an Innovation Accelerator at NPS

Abstract

Defense innovation in the United States remains constrained by slow acquisition cycles, fragmented programs, and underused human capital. The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) hosts a unique population of operationally experienced officers whose potential contributions to innovation are under-utilized. This thesis explores how an independent, third-party startup accelerator adjacent to NPS could bridge that gap. Using qualitative research and stakeholder interviews across defense, academia, and industry, it evaluates the feasibility and potential impact of such an accelerator. Findings indicate that a legally separate but closely affiliated accelerator could serve as a critical bridge across the “valley of death,” linking early-stage concepts to fielded capabilities. Under strict ethical and conflict-of-interest safeguards, active-duty students could contribute operational insight to startups while gaining valuable learning from interacting with them that may contribute to their NPS experience. An accelerator could connect the DoW (Department of War), academia, and industry in a triple-helix ecosystem, accelerating technology transition through Cooperative Research and Development Agreements and Other Transactions. The thesis concludes that a startup accelerator adjacent to NPS could offer numerous benefits for NPS stakeholders.