AFwerX

AFwerX is a United States Air Force program with the stated goal of fostering a culture of innovation within the service. Encompassing a number of programs supported with relatively small amounts of funding, the new initiative is intended to circumvent bureaucracy and engage new entrepreneurs in Air force programs. AFwerX was officially announced by Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson on 21 July 2017 during her visit to Nellis Air Force Base. The program is partially based on the structure of Air Force Special Operations Command, and has been described as an "Island of misfit toys" for entrepreneurs in the Air Force. Secretary Wilson stated that the program would "increase lethality at a lower cost".

Concept

AFwerX is intended to engage inter and extra service innovators and entrepreneurs in the operations of the United States Air force. The goal of the programs under the AFwerX umbrella is to develop effective solutions to the challenges facing the service through partnership with private sector business entities, with particular emphasis being placed on collaboration with technology startups. The program will reportedly cost 2 million dollars in its first year.

Technology accelerator

Through AFwerX, the Air Force launched a technology accelerator program in September 2017. The technology accelerator program will put emphasis on the development and implementation of autonomous technologies. The goal of said developments are to increase the ability of the Air Force assets to detect, identify, attribute, and mitigate autonomous technologies. Boston based company PBTS LLC and entrepreneur networking service Techstars have been contracted to operate the accelerator in conjunction with AFwerX.

Locations

The first functioning AFwerX location was announced to be opening at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2018, where, according to the Air Force, groups will be able to present IDeaS for evaluation by the service branch.

See also

• SOFWERX