On June 1, 2026, a diverse group of aspiring individuals gathered to begin a unique six-month journey through the newly launched Cyber Innovation Accelerator, an intensive program designed to equip participants with both cutting-edge cybersecurity skills and the knowledge needed to pursue federal opportunities in the defense and national security sectors.
The inaugural cohort was selected from more than 50 applicants nationwide, with only 16 participants chosen for the program. The cohort represents a broad range of backgrounds, including a recent high school graduate, military veterans, faculty members, undergraduate and graduate students, and industry professionals.
Unlike traditional cybersecurity training programs that focus primarily on technical competencies, the Cyber Innovation Accelerator combines hands-on cybersecurity education with instruction on identifying, evaluating, and pursuing federal contracting opportunities. Participants will gain exposure to modern cybersecurity frameworks, emerging technologies, proposal development, and the processes used by government agencies to engage industry partners.
"This program is about more than teaching cybersecurity skills," said Dr. Faisal Kaleem. "We are helping participants understand how innovation, technical expertise, and entrepreneurship can come together to address national security challenges. Our goal is to create pathways for individuals to contribute to the cybersecurity workforce while also empowering them to pursue opportunities that can lead to the creation of new businesses and innovative solutions."
Throughout the six-month program, participants will engage with industry leaders, government representatives, military professionals, and cybersecurity experts. The accelerator's distinguished speakers and mentors include leaders from academia, government, industry, and the defense community who will share their expertise and insights with the cohort.
The program will culminate in December 2026 with a capstone experience in which participants identify and compete for real federal opportunities by developing and submitting proposals. This practical experience is designed to provide participants with firsthand exposure to the federal acquisition and innovation ecosystem.
By combining technical training, business development, mentorship, and real-world application, the Cyber Innovation Accelerator aims to strengthen the cybersecurity workforce while fostering the next generation of defense innovators and entrepreneurs.
We plan to recruit the next cohort in Spring 2027, building on the lessons learned and successes achieved by the inaugural class.
The kickoff event also featured networking opportunities and presentations from program partners and supporters. Participants were welcomed by an impressive lineup of speakers and enjoyed the hospitality provided by the GetChkd team, whose support helped make the launch event a success.
As the cohort embarks on the next six months of learning and collaboration, organizers are optimistic about the impact these participants will have on the future of cybersecurity, innovation, and national security.
"We are excited to watch this talented group grow throughout the program," said Kaleem. "The knowledge, relationships, and experiences they gain here have the potential to create lasting impact for our region, our workforce, and our nation's security."
For more information about the program, visit the Cyber Innovation Accelerator website.