Warfighting Integration Network Launches to Connect Kentucky Innovators with Department of War Opportunities, Drive Millions in Local Economic 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

Louisville, Kentucky—The Warfighting Integration Network (WIN) announced its launch in Kentucky to unlock the region’s innovation potential to support national security while driving local investment. The WIN program has proven successful with similar efforts deployed in West Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, helping organizations take advantage of federal opportunities, which have resulted in tens of millions of dollars in local economic impact.

WIN in Kentucky is designed to help the Commonwealth’s universities, small businesses, and rural communities access technology transition opportunities with the Department of the Air Force and the broader Department of War (DoW). To help Kentucky researchers, startups, and technology organizations take advantage of these opportunities, the program will deliver targeted coaching, ecosystem development, and opportunity navigation across the region. As part of the U.S. Air Force’s efforts to democratize contractual and innovation opportunities in traditionally underrepresented and rural areas, WIN in Kentucky resources will be offered at no cost to local participants.

As part of its launch, WIN in Kentucky will host engagement events across the Commonwealth to connect partners from academia, industry, and federal agencies. The program will also meet directly with Kentucky companies, startups, and research institutions to better understand the state’s innovation infrastructure and identify opportunities to strengthen collaboration and technology transition.

Kentucky’s innovation ecosystem is robust, interconnected, and spans across the region—boasting flagship research universities, defense installations, accelerators, incubators, economic development agencies, entrepreneurial hubs, and a legacy of industrial leadership.

WIN in Kentucky is a storied initiative launched by Parallax Advanced Research in partnership with Vertx Partners and the Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation, working to enhance partnerships between the Department of the Air Force and academia in support of the United States Air Force Science & Technology 2030 Strategy.

By building on this strong foundation, WIN in Kentucky aims to activate and align rural and urban assets alike in support of national defense innovation, ensuring that Kentucky’s diverse higher-education institutions serve as engines of research, commercialization, and vital STEM talent for the nation’s security. WIN extends the successful national APEX (Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment) framework into Kentucky, while customizing activities to the state’s unique strengths and needs.

“The launch of the Warfighting Integration Network in Kentucky is a powerful opportunity to connect our state’s innovation assets to national defense priorities,” said Terry Samuel, President of Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation. “Kentucky is home to a growing base of advanced manufacturers, technology companies, and research institutions with solutions that are ready to scale.”

“You don’t have to be located in Silicon Valley or D.C. to make a difference,” said WIN Executive Director Paula Lemke. “Some of the most promising solutions to America’s toughest defense challenges are being developed in places like eastern Kentucky. WIN in Kentucky will ensure those solutions are seen, funded, and scaled.”

“Expanding the Warfighting Integration Network into Kentucky strengthens the entire defense innovation ecosystem,” said Sean Frisbee, President of Vertx Partners. “By bringing WIN to this region, we’re creating new pathways for Kentucky companies to engage with federal partners, access opportunities that were previously out of reach, and scale technologies with real-world impact, all while accelerating the transition from promising innovations to the warfighter.”

For more information about the WIN in Kentucky initiative, visit WINinKY.org.

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About WIN

The Warfighting Integration Network connects academic, small business, and government partners to accelerate defense innovation and technology transition. Led by Parallax Advanced Research in collaboration with Vertx Partners, WIN is an executed program under the APEX (Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment) umbrella, delivering education, coaching, and connection services nationwide.

About Parallax Advanced Research

Parallax Advanced Research is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that tackles global challenges through strategic research and innovation partnerships. With expertise in defense, space, and advanced technology, Parallax supports the entire innovation lifecycle from discovery to transition.

About Vertx Partners

Vertx Partners specializes in building unique networks and creating opportunities for non-traditional innovators. They connect companies to the Department of War by guiding them through acquisition pathways and successful technology transition, focusing on both technology and business readiness.

About KSTC

The Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation’s mission is to champion innovation in knowledge, talent, and investment to accelerate the state’s economic growth and competitiveness, securing a better future for all Kentuckians.