Seed Program

Our Seed Program uses a venture capital model to support early stage research projects that originate from boots-on-the-ground experiences unique to service members. When we add private funding to these students’ unique perspectives, intelligence and work ethics, big things happen. First, we identify seed projects to fund. If the initial research is promising, these seeds can advance to become "seedlings" and receive additional funding. Many of these projects go on to create tangible improvements in the Department of Defense, directly impacting our national security. Supported by the Defense Innovation Fund, the program allows NPS students to partner with professors to turn ideas into action by pitching their plans to a panel to advance through all three phases:

  • Phase One:        Open call for research proposals
  • Phase Two:        Selected projects receive $10,000 each to develop a detailed plan
  • Phase Three:      Selected projects receive additional funding to complete research 

 

OUR 2018 SEED PROJECTS INCLUDE: 

  • Directed Energy Weapons Performance
  • Autonomous Sub-Munition Delivery Systems
  • Subsurface Mine Drift Identification for Planning Ship Maneuvers
  • Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology in Naval Systems
  • Enhanced Thermal Performance of Living Spaces
  • The Monterey Cyber Institute
  • Cross-Disciplinary Learning
  • Security Testing and Analysis of Cyber-Physical Systems
  • Technology for Improved Research, Teaching and Learning at NPS
  • NPS Partnership with Stanford University in Spacecraft Robotics
  • Improved Energy Efficiency in Warhead Target Strikes
  • Tactical Communication Without Satellite Equipment
  • Diverting and Tracking Cyber Attacks
  • Dark Network Exploration
  • Brain-Computer Interfaces and Biocommunication
  • Case Studies for Leadership Transformation
  • Humanitarian/Disaster Relief Mission Metrics
  • Analytics Platform for Large-Scale Defense Data
  • Case Studies on Defense Acquisition
  • Sea, Land and Air Military Research Facility

The Seed Program is continuing to fuel more innovative research each year, and there are more projects seeking full funding. To help fuel more research, you can give online or call us at 831-901-3766.