VIPC Awards Ecosystem Grant to Arlington Economic Development to Establish New Startup and Technology Launchpad

 

Starburst’s National Landing Launchpad set to fuel growth of Northern Virginia’s aerospace & defense startups.

 

RICHMOND, Va. — The Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) today announced that it has awarded $200,000 to Arlington Economic Development (AED) through its Regional Innovation Fund (RIF). The grant will support the launch of Starburst’s National Landing Launchpad in Arlington, Virginia, an initiative designed to accelerate the growth of the region’s aerospace and defense startup ecosystem. In partnership with AED, the National Landing Business Improvement District (BID), and Starburst, this funding will help strengthen Northern Virginia’s position as a leader in innovation and national security technology.

 

Despite its strong aerospace and defense legacy, Northern Virginia has historically lagged behind smaller markets in startup formation across these sectors. Starburst, the world’s leading aerospace and defense (A&D) startup accelerator and strategic advisory practice, will bring its proven programming — successfully implemented in global hubs like Los Angeles — to Northern Virginia. The first year of Starburst’s National Landing Launchpad will support up to ten emerging companies, fostering economic development and strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem.

 

“This grant funding for Starburst’s National Landing Launchpad underscores VIPC’s commitment to strengthening Virginia’s innovation ecosystem,” said Joe Benevento, VIPC President and CEO. “By partnering with AED and Starburst, we are fostering a dynamic regional network that supports high-growth aerospace and defense startups. This initiative will not only drive job creation and technological advancement, but also reinforce Virginia’s position as a national leader in defense innovation and entrepreneurship.”

 

Through this funding, Starburst will design tailored programming for early-stage A&D companies, providing them with mentorship, industry connections and access to capital. Additionally, Starburst will host educational and networking events in National Landing throughout the year.

 

“Arlington has long been at the heart of aerospace and defense innovation, and this partnership with Starburst will help ensure that our region remains competitive on a national and global scale,” Arlington Economic Development Director Ryan Touhill said. “This initiative will not only support startups but also attract new talent and investment to Arlington, Virginia, and the region as a whole.”

 

Starburst brings a global network of 15,000+ startups, investors and industry partners, uniquely positioning Northern Virginia’s aerospace and defense startups for long-term success.

 

“With our expansion into Arlington, Starburst is excited to partner with AED and VIPC to help establish National Landing as a powerhouse for aerospace, defense, and emerging technology startups,” Starburst CEO and Founder Francois Chopard said. “This Launchpad will create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and companies driving the future of national security and dual-use technologies.”

 

The National Landing BID, a key partner in the region’s innovation growth, also welcomed the announcement.

 

“National Landing is emerging as a top destination for technology, innovation and business growth,” said Tracy Sayegh Gabriel, President and CEO of the National Landing BID. “The launch of Starburst’s National Landing Launchpad further catalyzes the region’s transformation. We look forward to supporting this initiative and strengthening the aerospace and defense ecosystem in our fast-growing community.”

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“VIPC’s RIF grant is a vital catalyst for launching the Starburst National Landing Launchpad and building a sustainable innovation network that drives economic development," said Conaway Haskins, VIPC’s Vice President of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems. “By investing in the accelerator’s first year, we are not only equipping entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed but also enabling Starburst to refine its approach across the local ecosystem, strengthening collaboration between startups, industry, and academia for lasting impact.”

 

With the successful launch of Starburst’s National Landing Launchpad, the region is set to attract top-tier startups, investors, and industry leaders, further cementing Virginia’s status as a hub for aerospace and defense innovation.