FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Montgomery TechLab Defense Accelerator Announces Inaugural Cohort

Emerging Defense Startups Reflect Bold Moves to Accelerate Regional Defense Innovation

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (May 19, 2025) – Montgomery TechLab is proud to announce the inaugural cohort of the MTL Defense Accelerator, a transformative initiative led in partnership with the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and Treble One to position Montgomery as a regional hub for defense innovation and emerging technologies.

After a competitive application and selection process, five high-potential startups have been selected to participate in the first cohort of this cutting-edge accelerator. The companies selected represent a range of next-generation capabilities in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, software, and wearable defense tech:

  • Analytical AI– Advanced threat detection and data intelligence
  • Lineaj– Secure digital identity and supply chain traceability
  • XO Armor– Smart protective gear for defense and industrial use
  • Generational Systems– AI-powered mission planning tools
  • GuidePad– Tactical navigation and augmented situational awareness

 These companies will participate in an 8-week, defense-focused accelerator program to help early-stage ventures scale their products in the defense and commercial markets. The MTL Defense Accelerator draws on Montgomery’s strategic assets—including proximity to Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, the Air Force’s Program Executive Office for Business Enterprise Systems, and a growing innovation ecosystem—to drive national security solutions forward.

 “The companies selected for our first defense accelerator cohort demonstrate incredible promise to strengthen our nation’s defense posture while growing Alabama’s innovation economy,” said Charisse Stokes, Executive Director of TechMGM and Partner Liaison for Montgomery TechLab. “We’re honored to work with them as they engage directly with Department of Defense stakeholders and develop scalable, dual-use technologies.”

 The program officially kicks off on Thursday, June 5, 2025, and the public is invited to attend the MTL Defense Accelerator Kickoff & Networking Reception to meet the cohort and learn more about how the Montgomery region is emerging as a center for defense tech innovation.

 Kickoff Event Details:

Date: Thursday, June 5th

Time: 4:30 – 6:30 PM

Location: KRESS Building (2nd Floor) (39 Dexter Ave, Montgomery, AL)

Register: https://montgomerytechlab.com/event/montgomery-techlab-defense-accelerator-launch-event

“This is more than a program—this is an investment in our future,” said Brien House, Program Director at Treble One. “Through the Montgomery TechLab Defense Accelerator, we are not only developing critical capabilities for the Department of Defense, but we’re building a stronger industrial base in Montgomery and across Alabama.”

The Accelerator is supported by the Innovate Alabama Tax Credit Program, which enables Alabama-based companies and individuals to allocate 50% of their state tax liability toward local innovation initiatives. These contributions directly support program operations and the scaling of participating startups.

This inaugural cohort is just the beginning. Planning is underway for future cohorts, with opportunities to contribute through tax credits, sponsorships, and mentorship.

ABOUT THE MONTGOMERY TECHLAB

The Montgomery TechLab (MTL) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing innovation and entrepreneurship in the Montgomery, Alabama region through education, acceleration, and incubation. MTL partners with local, regional, and national collaborators to provide technology-based workforce development, attract and support technology companies, and grow the regional innovation ecosystem. Growing Montgomery’s culture of tech and innovation is a critical part of the region’s economic development.   To learn more, visit montgomerytechlab.com.

 ABOUT TREBLE ONE

A national venture studio that partners with mission-driven founders to build, launch, and scale dual-use technologies – serving both commercial markets and national security needs. With a focus on defense innovation, Treble One accelerates early-stage companies solving complex challenges in AI, cybersecurity, logistics, and emerging tech.

ABOUT THE MONTGOMERY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

With a mission to drive economic prosperity and build a greater life for all in the capital region, the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce is a full-spectrum economic development public/private partnership representing 1,400 businesses and organizations with over 90,000 employees throughout Central Alabama.

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Program Contact:

Brien House | Program Director

Treble One

[email protected]