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Overview

The Manufacturing Readiness Level Bootcamp program equips early-stage, hardware-focused technology teams with the knowledge and resources needed to make strategic decisions that support scalable manufacturing and successful product delivery. Through a two-day “Design For” training, participants learn how early design and manufacturing choices can impact their ability to deliver solutions at scale, avoiding delays and costly redesigns. By addressing these considerations from the start, companies can accelerate development, reduce risk, and improve their ability to deliver critical solutions to the warfighter. Ongoing support is also available to assist with prototype development and full-scale production.

Benefits

The MRL Bootcamp program helps startups design with scalability in mind, avoiding costly redesigns and delays. Participants gain insights into manufacturing trade-offs, connect with key resources, and learn how early business decisions impact cost, timelines, and mission success -positioning them for faster, more effective transitions from prototype to production.

Company Requirements

  • Must be developing hardware-focused technology

  • Should be in early stages of transitioning from prototype to scalable production

  • Attend the full two-day, in-person training

  • Cover all travel, lodging, and related expenses

  • Be represented by a technical founder or senior decision-maker

  • Actively participate in discussions and share development challenges

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Expected Outcomes

A clearer understanding of how to align early design decisions with scalable manufacturing •

Practical exposure to "Design For" trade space concepts through expert-led sessions and case studies •

Connections to vetted manufacturing partners and production resources •

Increased confidence in making decisions that reduce risk and accelerate time to delivery •

How It Works

The MRL Bootcamp program is a two-day, in-person workshop designed to help early-stage hardware teams align product design with scalable manufacturing. It combines expert instruction, case studies, hands-on activities, and a facility tour to explore key “Design For” topics such as cost, performance, tooling, and supply chain. Participants receive tailored feedback, engage with manufacturing experts, and apply lessons directly to their business. The program begins with a pre-program intake, includes practical sessions over two days, and provides post-workshop support through a mini concierge service and access to production resources.

Program Timeline

Application Deadline: December 22, 2025
Notification of Acceptance: January 19, 2026
Bootcamp Session: February 17–18, 2026

*If you are unable to join this cohort, additional Bootcamp sessions will be offered in 2026.

Sorry, but this application is now closed. If you are unable to join this cohort, additional Bootcamp sessions will be offered in 2026.

Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Kansas

2026 MRL Boot Camp Application

General Overview

Number of Employees

Capabilities & Program Fit

Technology Domain(s) (Select all that apply)
Current Technology Readiness Level
Current Manufacturing Readiness Level

Traction

Have you pitched for any external funding (e.g., DIU, DoW, SBIR/STTR, AFWERX, or private investment)?
Yes
No
Have you received any external funding (e.g., DIU, DoW, SBIR/STTR, AFWERX, or private investment)?
Yes
No
Have you participated in defense-related events programs, or training?

Supporting Company Materials

If available, please send supporting documents that help us understand your company’s capabilities and readiness to travis.herndon@gofirepoint.org Examples include a pitch deck, capability briefing, one-pager, product datasheet, case studies, or past performance summaries. These materials are for internal review only.

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