WIN in Kentucky
The Warfighting Integration Network (WIN) turns Kentucky’s talent, research, and industry into mission-ready impact.
Opportunity Favors the
Connected.
WIN in Kentucky connects the Commonwealth’s innovators to real federal opportunity. We bring academia, industry, and government together to move Kentucky’s ideas faster—from concept to funded, fielded impact.
WIN’s expansion into Kentucky will connect local universities, small businesses, and rural innovators to opportunities with the Department of the Air Force and other defense agencies
Introducing WIN in Kentucky
Who We Are
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WIN in Kentucky helps innovators figure out how the defense system actually works. We connect Kentucky researchers and companies to federal decision-makers, explain the pathways to funding and contracts, and help teams position their technology so it can move from concept to fielded capability.
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Powered by Parallax Advanced Research, Vertx Partners, and the Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation, WIN unites the people and organizations that make innovation happen—universities, small businesses, research leaders, and defense stakeholders. Together, we create bridges that turn bold ideas into funded projects, real partnerships, and measurable impact.
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WIN in Kentucky exists to move promising ideas into the hands of the warfighter. By connecting Kentucky’s research, talent, and technology to federal partners, WIN accelerates the transition from innovation to real-world defense capability—ensuring solutions are not only developed, but deployed where they matter most.
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WIN in Kentucky is built for innovators who know their technology works but need help navigating what comes next. If you’re a researcher, startup, or small business with a promising solution, we help you understand where it fits, who to talk to, and how to move forward inside the defense ecosystem. Our role is to make the system clearer, the pathway shorter, and the opportunity real.
Our Tech Transition Process
Assess the Fit
1
We start by understanding your technology and identifying where it aligns with real defense needs, priorities, and transition opportunities.
Clarify the Path
2
WIN demystifies acquisition pathways, funding mechanisms, and engagement routes so innovators know exactly how to move forward.
Build Readiness
3
We help refine positioning, messaging, and expectations so teams are prepared to engage confidently with federal and industry partners.
Make the Connections
4
Through targeted introductions, events, and engagement, WIN connects innovators with the right decision-makers.
Our focus is momentum. We support next steps that move technologies toward funding, partnership, and deployment in support of the warfighter.
5
Support Transition
KY Academic Spotlight
Morehead State University
Morehead State University’s Space Science Center is advancing space-based innovation through hands-on satellite development, mission operations, and applied research that prepares talent and technology for real-world use. MSU’s work demonstrates how Kentucky universities are contributing directly to national security, aerospace readiness, and the future of space operations.
Our Partners
Parallax Advanced Research is a nonprofit innovation organization that accelerates national security solutions by connecting research, technology, and mission-driven partners. With deep experience across defense, space, and advanced technologies, Parallax helps ideas move from discovery to deployment.
Program Lead
Vertx Partners specializes in helping innovators navigate defense pathways and turn promising technology into funded, fielded capability. They connect non-traditional companies and researchers to federal partners by clarifying acquisition processes, building readiness, and creating the right relationships at the right time.
Transition Lead
Kentucky LeadThe Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation champions innovation, talent, and investment to strengthen Kentucky’s economy. KSTC supports research commercialization, workforce development, and technology-based growth across the Commonwealth.
Join the Network
Connect with the people, pathways, and opportunities shaping defense innovation in Kentucky