Breaking into government contracts can be challenging for startups, especially in the defense sector.
That’s where NW Tech Bridge steps in, connecting innovative businesses with the U.S. Navy. Ralph Duncan, a retired US Navy Engineering Duty Officer with over 40 years of maritime and business experience, now serves as the NW Tech Bridge Coordinator and Deputy Director. His role focuses on helping small businesses access Navy opportunities, particularly through the SBIR/STTR programs.
In this Q&A, Ralph shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship and offers practical advice for startups looking to work with the Department of Defense. He also discusses key tech trends and how NW Tech Bridge supports both entrepreneurs and the Navy’s evolving needs.
Q: What’s your story? Tell us about your background and how you came to serve as the NW Tech Bridge Coordinator and Deputy Director.
I’m a proud, retired US Navy Engineering Duty Officer, with over 40 years of experience in the maritime and business sectors. My background uniquely combines leading and coaching technical teams to tackle highly challenging, mission-focused goals.
After my military career, I transitioned into entrepreneurship and small business ownership, became a leadership coach, and took on senior corporate roles like VP of Marine Engineering and VP of Business Development. I also pursued graduate studies in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Stanford University.
Now, I serve as the NW Tech Bridge Coordinator and Deputy Director, where I get to engage with innovative businesses throughout the Pacific Northwest ecosystem.
Q: What is the mission of NW Tech Bridge, and how does it align with supporting the Navy’s strategic goals?
The Tech Bridge network was created by the Office of Naval Research with two primary goals: first, to discover and deliver cutting-edge technologies to the Navy and its sailors. Second, to nurture a long-term, innovative small business ecosystem that can continuously provide future-ready technologies.
Q: How does NW Tech Bridge help startups access funding, such as SBIR/STTR programs or other resources?
The Navy’s SBIR/STTR program is a unique, non-dilutive funding mechanism available exclusively to U.S. small businesses. It supports important research work aimed at the Navy’s specific needs. The great thing about this program is that large contractors can’t compete for this research—it’s entirely focused on small businesses.
SBIR solicitations are based on actual Navy acquisition programs, which means they target real, current needs with clear transition goals. Startups that succeed in these programs can move forward with guaranteed funding and potentially secure sole-source production contracts.
Q: What advice do you have for startups that want to work with the Department of Defense but don’t know where to start?
The best place to begin is by registering on the NW Tech Bridge website. From there, we can set up an introductory conversation and help point you in the right direction. We aim to guide startups through the process and connect them with the right resources.
Q: What trends or technological innovations do you foresee having the biggest impact on the Navy in the next 5-10 years?
AI is, of course, a rapidly growing area, but there’s also significant interest in microelectronics, advanced materials, sustainment engineering, renewable energy and storage, space technology, hypersonics, and biotechnology. Human-machine interfaces and nuclear technology are also on the radar for future advancements.
Q: How is NW Tech Bridge evolving to meet the future needs of both startups and the Navy?
Great question! NW Tech Bridge must be in tune not only with industry changes but also with how the Navy is evolving to adopt new technologies at a faster pace.
As we look ahead, we’re focusing on three key areas:
- For startups with well-developed technologies: We help them “cross the finish line” by facilitating prototype testing or navigating government contracts.
- For startups earlier in their development: We connect them with partners who can assist with research and funding to move their technology up the readiness scale.
- For those just getting started: We provide coaching and guidance on how to navigate the government contracting process and effectively communicate their value proposition.
In short, NW Tech Bridge is committed to supporting startups at every stage of their journey while ensuring the Navy gets access to the technologies it needs to stay ahead.