Griffiss Institute in Rome Opens Venture Studio for Defense-Tech Startups
Rome's Griffiss Business and Technology Park already draws defense research money through AFRL; a studio that works hands-on with founders is a bid to turn that research into companies that grow and hire here.
The Griffiss Institute in Rome has opened a venture studio to help defense-technology companies grow, the nonprofit announced on Nov. 5, 2026 (Griffiss Institute announcement; program details on the Griffiss Ventures Studio page).
The studio is aimed at "dual-use" founders, people whose technology could serve both military and commercial customers. Rather than taking a distant board seat, the institute says its staff will work alongside founding teams. Support listed includes:
- connections to customers, mentors, testing resources and investors
- help with federal compliance, IT and financial-assurance requirements
- government business development and a path to market
- full-time or fractional executive help through a company's first fundraising round
No funding amounts, cohort size or application deadline were published. Founders can apply through the "Apply Today" button on the studio page, or call the institute at (315) 838-1696. The Griffiss Institute is at 592 Hangar Road, Suite 200, at Griffiss Business and Technology Park in Rome.
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