Montgomery TechLab has opened applications for its next Defense Accelerator cohort, with the program set to begin this summer and culminate in a major defense technology conference.
According to the announcement, applications opened April 1 and will remain open through May 15. The program is scheduled to begin June 16 and will conclude with a Demo Day held alongside the Department of the Air Force Information Technology and Cyberpower Conference (DAFITC).
The accelerator is designed for early- and growth-stage companies developing dual-use technologies, particularly in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and application development. Participants will receive mentorship, access to defense stakeholders and guidance on navigating federal and commercial markets.
Treble One will serve as the program’s primary delivery partner, providing expertise in working with the Department of Defense and helping companies align their technology with mission needs.
“Treble One exists to bridge the gap between innovative companies and the defense mission—and that’s exactly what this accelerator delivers,” said Brien House, Executive Director of Alabama Accelerators at Treble One. “We’re not just connecting founders to the DoD ecosystem; we’re rolling up our sleeves alongside them to make sure their technology actually solves real problems for warfighters. The talent, the partnerships, and the access to DoD stakeholders here in Montgomery make this one of the most compelling defense innovation programs in the country — and we’re just getting started.”
Opportunity Alabama has also joined the initiative as a strategic partner, with a focus on expanding investment and economic development tied to the program.
“Opportunity Alabama is focused on unlocking investment and accelerating economic growth across the state, and this partnership with Montgomery TechLab represents exactly the kind of initiative that drives meaningful, long-term impact,” said Alex Flachsbart, Founder & CEO. “By supporting high-growth companies in AI, cybersecurity, and application development, we are not only strengthening Alabama’s innovation ecosystem—we are positioning the state to compete and lead in industries critical to our future.”
Program leaders said aligning the Demo Day with DAFITC will give participating companies exposure to defense leaders and industry partners.
“By aligning with DAFITC for Demo Day, Montgomery TechLab ensures that participating companies gain exposure to senior defense leaders, decision-makers, and industry partners—further accelerating opportunities for adoption, partnership, and growth,” said Charisse Stokes, executive director and partner liaison for Montgomery TechLab.
Officials say the accelerator is part of broader efforts to grow Alabama’s defense and technology sectors while supporting economic development in Montgomery and across the state.
