The Latest Vertx Wins: New Partners & Millions Awarded

The latest Vertx wins see the company expanding its footprint, supporting the APEX program, and helping cohort members win contracts worth millions.

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In our “Vertx Partners in 2024” piece, we predicted that the next 12 months would continue to see the exponential progress Vertx has enjoyed over the past few years. As it turns out, 2024 was a landmark year for Vertx Partners. It was a year marked by expansion, quality service, and impactful collaborations across a growing national footprint.

Supported by the Department of the Air Force’s (DAF) Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment (APEX), Vertx Partners has, in turn, furthered the mission of its progenitor. With a steadfast commitment to its mission of fostering economic growth and technological advancement in Appalachia and beyond, Vertx achieved several significant milestones over the past year. Let’s explore those achievements below.

Expanding Horizons: New Regions & Growing Influence

The past year saw Vertx Partners extend its reach into new states as diverse as Florida, Montana, and Mississippi. At the same time, Vertx has continued solidifying its foothold in Appalachian strongholds like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania. Notably, establishing relationships in Kentucky proved especially significant. Vertx formed partnerships with institutions like Morehead State University and leveraged its alliance with Innovation Hubs like SOAR to drive regional growth.

This expansion has brought a wealth of new partners. The Vertx cohort now spans over 200 companies, reflecting the organization’s growing influence and connective capability. This expansion underscores Vertx’s ability to adapt and scale its services. Meanwhile, we’ve maintained our focus on Appalachian development. After all, an expanded cohort means more potential for connectivity with everyone.

Some quick stats on Vertx’s growing influence:

• Vertx spans 215 cohort members (150 active). This includes 15 in KY, 11 in PA, 14 in TN, and 19 in WV.
• Vertx matched 52 cohort members with prime contractors.
• Vertx engaged with the Department of the Air Force (DAF) and 16 other agencies.
• Vertx garnered over 100,000 social media impressions.

Personalized Guidance for Success

At the core of Vertx’s success is its team of veteran advisors, whose expertise in federal contracting and business development sets Vertx apart from its competitors.

Our team works closely with each company in the cohort, providing tailored guidance that enables businesses to master foundational business practices and position themselves for long-term success. That means transitioning technology to the commercial market, matching DoD capability gaps, and having a shot at winning a competitive Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase III award.

The concierge service offered by Vertx advisors is particularly crucial in helping companies navigate this complex federal contracting landscape, ensuring they are prepared to compete and succeed in securing funding and contracts. And this approach continues to deliver results. Several cohort companies, including Kinnami, succeeded in commercializing their technology, achieving Phase III SBIR/STTR status in 2024. Additionally, dozens more have high potential for transitioning their tech into the hands of the warfighter.

Some quick stats on Vertx’s contract wins in 2024:

• Kinnami joins a growing list of Vertx clients awarded a Phase III SBIR. Kinnami’s contract is estimated to be valued between $2-3M.
• 24 cohort members are vying for Phase III contracts.
• 186 proposals were submitted valued at $70.5M, with 56 proposal wins valued at $54.5M.

Phase III Awards Cont., AAM, & Space Initiatives

Vertx Partners maintains a strong focus on Phase III SBIR/STTR. For example, the achievements of cohort members highlight Vertx’s and APEX’s ability to connect clients with critical resources and opportunities at this pivotal stage of development.

In the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) sector, Vertx continued its leadership role by advocating for Appalachia’s potential as a hub for this transformative industry. A Vertx-commissioned Deloitte study released early in the year outlined actionable steps for West Virginia to capitalize on AAM. Meanwhile, Vertx’s 11-part educational guide series further informed and engaged stakeholders.

Vertx also bolstered its support for the space industry by facilitating collaborations between regional companies and organizations such as the National Space Defense Center. Additionally, the recent appointment of Steve Case, Vertx Partners’ Space Advisor, boosts our ability to support cohort members in space. These efforts are helping to establish Appalachia as a key player in yet another burgeoning industry.

Additional Highlights from the Past 12 Months

• Vertx released Vertx Films featuring Whisper Aero, FC Renew, and Marshall University, showcasing the groundbreaking work of its partners.
• Vertx played a vital role in West Virginia workforce development through its continued work with the Mingo County Redevelopment Authority’s UAS curriculum and collaboration with the Keystone Space Collaborative.
• Vertx strengthened partnerships with universities like Mississippi State, which leads the FAA’s ASSUREd program, advancing research in uncrewed aircraft systems safety.

Looking Ahead

As Vertx Partners reflects on the past year’s accomplishments, it remains steadfast in its mission to build on these successes in the coming year. By expanding its regional presence, offering unparalleled personalized consulting, and advancing key initiatives in Phase III contracts, AAM, and space, Vertx positions itself to make an even greater impact in 2025. Likewise, these ongoing advancements will continue furthering APEX’s mission of accessing top national talent and meeting the needs of the DoD.

For businesses looking to join a growing movement of innovation and economic development, Vertx Partners has your back. Contact us today!