ABOUT THE IAI CATALYST PROGRAM

In January 2024, IAI North America opened the doors to its U.S. Innovation Center, and launched the IAI Catalyst Accelerator program, powered by Starburst.

IAI Catalyst seeks to expand upon the success of IAI’s Innovation Center in Israel by providing U.S. technology startups with the necessary resources to successfully develop and scale their products.

Designed for U.S.-based early-stage startups and mature research projects looking to advance TRL, the accelerator program offers the unique opportunity to receive investment and explore a pilot program – enabling participants to test and refine their technologies alongside IAl’s world-renowned engineering experts and opening doors to future collaborations and commercial and defense opportunities.

BENEFITS

Investment

Receive $100,000 USD cash investment with an additional $100,000 in-kind technical support

Commercial

Participate in a pilot program to test and refine your technologies alongside IAl's engineering experts

Mentorship

Receive 1:1 strategic advisory guidance from 100+ industry experts, mentors, and advisors

Technology

Direct access to IAI’s cutting-edge technology and various business units to advance project goals

PROGRAM TIMELINE

COHORT 3

  • Application Release

    February 4, 2025

  • Application Deadline

    April 4, 2025

  • In Person Selection Committee

    May 20, 2025

  • Program Commencement

    June 23, 2025

  • Demo Day

    December 11, 2025

TECHNOLOGY SCOPE

The IAI Catalyst program is sourcing for technologies related to:

  • FOCUS AREA 1

    ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the software engineering discipline of enhancing software applications to perform tasks that currently require human intelligence. Key technologies in aerospace and defense include edge computing for real-time decision-making, advanced algorithms for situational awareness, vision and perception systems, and command and control applications. Additional focus areas include cost-effective sensor fusion (AI, optics, etc.), flight control algorithms, pilot assistant AI agents, and adaptive learning models for dynamic operational environments.

  • FOCUS AREA 2

    PROPULSION SYSTEMS

    Advances in propulsion systems are essential to achieving efficiency and sustainability in aerospace and defense. IAI is interested in green energy propulsion solutions, such as hydrogen-powered systems, high-energy density storage, and advanced fuels, alongside cutting-edge propulsion for UAVs and aircraft. The focus extends to high-performance engines, energy-efficient flight systems, and disruptive propulsion technologies that support extended missions and reduced environmental impact.

  • FOCUS AREA 3

    AUTONOMY

    Autonomous technologies are redefining operations across air, land, and sea. IAI seeks innovative autonomy solutions, including advanced algorithms for real-time decision-making, high-performance sensors for situational awareness, and reliable communication systems for distributed autonomous operations. Specific interests include sense-and-avoid capabilities, smart navigation systems, multi-platform interoperability, and scalable autonomy architectures that support collaborative mission execution.

  • FOCUS AREA 4

    ROBOTICS & DRONES

    IAI focuses on advanced systems for autonomous drones, robotic platforms for challenging terrains, and integrated sensor suites for precision operations. Areas of interest include swarm intelligence, extended-range UAVs, underwater robotics, and multi-domain platforms that enhance mission versatility and operational resilience.

  • FOCUS AREA 5

    SPACE TECHNOLOGY

    Space technologies continue to revolutionize industries and solve global challenges. IAI seeks breakthroughs in satellite communications, spaceflight systems, and space operations. Focus areas include advanced propulsion for space vehicles, space-based solar power, and satellite imaging for applications like precision agriculture, disaster response, and secure global communication networks. These innovations promise to redefine energy, navigation, and defense sectors.

  • FOCUS AREA 6

    Energy & Sustainability

    Energy innovation is critical to the future of aerospace and defense. IAI focuses on renewable energy solutions like solar, wind, and geothermal technologies, as well as advanced energy storage systems and hydrogen-based propulsion. Areas of interest include sustainable aviation fuels, grid-integrated power systems, and scalable solutions for decarbonizing aerospace operations to meet global sustainability goals.

  • FOCUS AREA 7

    Quantum Science

    Quantum science offers transformative potential in aerospace and defense, with IAI focusing on communication, navigation, and encryption technologies. Space-based quantum networks enable secure data transmission via satellites, while quantum sensors enhance navigation by overcoming limitations like atmospheric interference. Key areas include Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) for robust encryption and innovations in quantum hardware for next-generation applications.

  • FOCUS AREA 8

    Advanced Materials and Manufacturing

    Advanced materials and manufacturing technologies are crucial for building resilient, lightweight, and cost-efficient systems. IAI is interested in additive manufacturing, high-strength composite materials, and novel fabrication methods to reduce production timelines and costs. Applications include aerospace components, UAV structures, and advanced systems capable of withstanding extreme conditions.

  • FOCUS AREA 9

    Advanced Data Dissemination Systems

    Data dissemination systems are at the heart of modern decision-making in aerospace and defense. IAI seeks innovations in electro-optical (EO), synthetic aperture radar (SAR), radio frequency (RF), and text-based data processing. Focus areas include smart data fusion, advanced analytics, and scalable platforms to enhance real-time situational awareness and mission-critical intelligence.

THE APPLICATION WINDOW FOR COHORT 3 CLOSES IN…

Submit Application