Welcome to
Encountering Innovation
Connecting People. Transitioning Technology. Strengthening the Defense Innovation Ecosystem.
You should see Menu Items at the top of the page (just above us here) to explore more. Or, you may scroll down the page and listen to a brief video of what EI is all about. Or, visit the Training & Support pages. Go to EI Tech Showcase 2026 for more information about this year's upcoming showcase for technologies being presented to the Department of War Science & Technology Advisors ('Tech Scouts').
EI2026 Tech Showcase, Agenda, & Program are live, as we move into June 30 - July 2 week. Go to the Agenda now....
What is
Encountering Innovation?
Encountering Innovation (EI) is a collaborative defense innovation ecosystem that connects emerging technologies with validated Department of War needs. Working alongside innovators, Tech Scouts, Tech Coaches, APEX Accelerators, Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), universities, industry partners, and commercialization organizations, EI helps accelerate the transition of dual-use solutions from concept to operational impact.
The annual Tech Showcase serves as the centerpiece of that mission, bringing together innovators, Department of War stakeholders, industry, academia, and ecosystem partners to discover promising technologies, exchange operational perspectives, and create meaningful pathways for technology transition.
Beyond the Showcase, Encountering Innovation continues to support its growing Cohort of Technologies by identifying follow-on opportunities, sharing awareness of emerging defense needs, and fostering strategic connections that strengthen national security, the defense industrial base, and America's manufacturing capability.
