By Tim Ryan
As we closed the chapter on Fiscal Year 2025, REaKTOR Technology Innovation Center is buzzing with pride and momentum. Nestled in the heart of Hampton, Virginia, we’ve not just met our goals—we’ve shattered them, fueling the entrepreneurial fire that’s transforming Hampton Roads into a powerhouse of space-age tech and bold startups. From bridging NASA innovations to market-ready solutions to onboarding diverse founders poised to change the world, this year has been a testament to our community’s resilience and ingenuity. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, investor, or tech enthusiast in the 757, here’s how our successes translate to real opportunities for you.
Let’s dive into the highlights. We exceeded our targets across the board, welcoming five new companies (our goal was three), creating 27 new jobs (well above our 10-job goal), and expanded our portfolio to 16 dynamic ventures that support 103 staff members. These aren’t just numbers—they’re stories of growth. New additions like Hercule-Q, Clear Aspect Solutions, Maxbyte, and Agria are already making waves. Take Agria, for instance: Joining us in April, they’re pursuing a NASA partnership for lunar food production, turning sci-fi dreams into tangible advancements right here in Hampton Roads.
Our pipeline is equally exciting, with innovators like JG First Line Threads and Scale Materials (focusing on advanced materials for aerospace and defense) ready to onboard. This builds on our history of nurturing startups since our inception as a collaborative hub powered by the City of Hampton and NASA Langley. Remember how we’ve evolved from a nascent idea in the early 2020s to a key player in regional economic development? This year’s progress amplifies that trajectory, submitting for the prestigious International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Entrepreneurship Award to spotlight REaKTOR’s impact (fingers crossed, we’ll find out the results in late August).
Diversity drives our innovation engine: 80% of our new companies are led by founders of color and/or women, with 62.5% of the entire portfolio reflecting this commitment. It’s a nod to Hampton Roads’ rich cultural tapestry, ensuring underrepresented voices lead the charge in tech and space sectors.
NASA technology transfer remains our secret sauce. We supported seven client companies in securing or pursuing NASA technology—far surpassing our goal of two—while forging deeper ties with NASA Langley. Highlights include VIPC grants for Tidal Flight and VroomBrick, and showcasing ventures at events like RVA757 Connects. Our strategic partnerships with organizations like VIPC, 757 Collab, Lighthouse Network, and AUVSI Hampton Roads, created pathways for our startups to access expert mentoring, investors, and resources.
On the mentoring front, we connected startups with seven service providers and three investors, including heavy-hitters like Plug and Play’s Jake McGee and Valor VC. Agria’s patent guidance from Patent Portfolio Builders is just one example of how we’re empowering founders to scale.
Sure, we faced challenges—like falling short of our sponsorship goal —but we’re pivoting smartly, our successes will help us unlock more corporate partnerships. Looking ahead, we’re expanding lab space for companies like Agria, deepening NASA integrations for lunar projects, and keeping the momentum rolling.
For our REaKTOR community, this means more than accolades—it’s about accessible tools for success: collaborative spaces, fundraising support, and introductions to technologists who can propel your ideas. As testimonials from our Executive Advisory Committee attest, REaKTOR is the hub where Hampton’s entrepreneurial spirit thrives, supporting USAF needs and driving sustainable growth.
Join us in celebrating FY25 and gearing up for an even brighter FY26. Whether you’re a founder ready to launch or a partner eager to collaborate, REaKTOR is your launchpad in Hampton Roads. Let’s keep innovating together—visit reaktor757.org to get involved!
