WASHINGTON, Sept. 11 (UPI) -- A Maryland technology center set up with the help of the National Security Agency is offering a cash prize to the most innovative homeland security technology.
The Chesapeake Innovation Center announced the first "Defend America Challenge" to coincide with the fifth anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.
The competition, for a $25,000 grand prize, is open to U.S. companies with a product or service in the homeland or national security field.
A statement from the center says the selection committee "will review business plans and select the winners based upon innovation in technology and viability of the business."
Initial entries must be submitted by Nov. 15. Twenty-five companies will be invited to submit a full business plan by Dec. 15 and six finalists will be judged before a live audience on Jan. 19, next year.
The center was set up to foster partnerships between major users of security technology and small companies trying to break into that market. It mentors companies and assists them with customer contracts, funding, staffing, subject matter experts, clearances, government contracting issues, and office facilities. Current partners include Northrop Grumman Corp., and the National Security Agency.
