TIDE works similarly to a trade show but comes at no cost to participants, who mainly come from industry and academia, and gives them opportunities to showcase prototype solutions and engage with Government representatives. The invitation-only model increases openness and transparency and helps promote a business-friendly environment.

Participants showcased more than 145 technologies, including unmanned systems, Global Positioning System alternatives, communications systems, and novel space technologies.

“TIDE is all about getting innovative developers in front of the DoD organizations that need these technologies. We’ve got almost 500 highly motivated people here from across industry, academia, government, and international partners. It’s absolutely electric to see this happening in one place, at such large scale, and in real time,” said I&M director Jon Lazar.

Bringing innovators together to showcase technologies critical to America’s military is only one of I&M’s priorities. The office also promotes continued collaboration with participants to maintain momentum for technology development long after the venue closes. For more information about I&M opportunities, including future Innovation Outreach and Discovery events, visit: https://ac.cto.mil/pe/im/