WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army xTech Program released The Evolution of the Army’s Premier Prize Competition Program, showcasing six years of accelerating innovation, advancing dual-use technologies and connecting commercial innovators with Army mission needs.

Since its launch in 2018, xTech—managed by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology—has emerged as a strategic gateway for nontraditional innovators, helping high-potential technologies gain traction within the Army. By fostering early engagement, reducing barriers to entry, and aligning commercial solutions with operational needs, xTech accelerates the transition of emerging capabilities toward Army adoption and use in the hands of Soldiers.

From fiscal years 2018 to 2024, xTech has awarded $23.1 million in cash prizes across 36 competitions, receiving over 6,000 applications from small businesses, startups and academia spanning all 50 states and 48 countries. By lowering barriers to entry, the program continues to attract nontraditional innovators—44% of whom reported that xTech was their first engagement with the Department of Defense. These efforts have not only addressed critical capability gaps but have also significantly expanded the pipeline of emerging technologies entering the defense innovation ecosystem.

xTech’s influence extends beyond its competitions. To date, xTech winners from 2018-2024, have secured more than $2.6 billion in follow-on funding, including over $1.9 billion in prime contracts and $655.6 million in private investment. By hosting finals at high-profile events such as the Association of the United States Army and Fed Supernova, xTech boosts visibility, fosters valuable connections, and accelerates development timelines through direct engagement with Army stakeholders and end-users.

As the Army’s “friendly front door” for innovation, xTech empowers non-traditional innovators to contribute cutting-edge solutions that address real-world mission needs. Through live experimentation, Soldier feedback, and streamlined contracting pathways, the program ensures emerging technologies are not only innovative, but operationally relevant.

Read the full report: U.S. Army xTech Showcase

Looking ahead, xTech remains focused on growing the Army’s innovation ecosystem and adapting to meet future challenges.  By prioritizing collaboration and accelerating innovation, xTech strengthens partnerships across the private sector and the DOD—strengthening the Army’s ability to outpace emerging threats, support modernization priorities and deliver lasting impact for Soldiers.

About the Program

The Army xTech Program scouts and advances dual-use technologies that improve Soldier readiness and operational effectiveness. Through prize competitions such as xTechSearch, the program identifies breakthrough solutions and opens doors for nontraditional companies to deliver cutting-edge capabilities to the Army. Since its launch in 2018, xTech has awarded more than $30 million in non-dilutive cash prizes across 46 competitions—fueling innovation pipelines and delivering battlefield-ready technologies.

Stay Connected

Subscribe to email updates, visit the Army xTech Program website, or follow us on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn. For inquiries, contact the xTech Program mailbox at usarmy.xtech@mail.mil.