In this episode of The Unmanned Podcast, Matt sits down with Joseph Weno, President and Executive Director of the Oregon UAS Accelerator, to discuss how autonomy and robotics are shaping the future of innovation. Joseph shares how the accelerator helps early-stage founders turn ideas into real-world solutions through mentorship, funding, and access to one of the largest UAS test ranges in the country.
Q1: What was the origin of the Oregon UAS Accelerator? How did it start and what problem are you solving?
Joseph: I come from a background of helping founders scale and commercialize their businesses. Oregon stepped forward to create a Center of Innovation Excellence, and we focus on UXS systems (Unix Security) —air, ground, and maritime. Our goal is to give founders the environment, mentorship, and resources they need to turn ideas into real, tested capabilities.
Joseph: It’s critical. We embed students and job seekers directly with startup founders, so they learn through real collaboration. This creates job opportunities, especially in rural areas, and often leads to full-time roles. We also work with the National Guard to help service members transition into this industry.
Joseph: Our program is a 12-week competitive accelerator. Founders start by applying to our innovation challenge, then go through mentorship, curriculum, and pitch rounds. We narrow participants down and provide grants, testing access, and up to six months at our UAS test range for finalists.
Joseph: One company, Zing Drone Solutions, came in building remote ID transponders. We helped them pivot to a counter-drone detection system. In just 12 weeks, they built and tested their product, secured contracts with correctional facilities, and moved their operations to Oregon. It’s a great example of how fast progress can happen with the right support.
Joseph: Don’t focus on raising money first. Focus on understanding your customer and market fit. Build something people truly need, not what you think they need. Also, start building a strong, balanced team early—because investors invest in teams that can execute.
Joseph: I hope they understand that unmanned systems are actively reshaping industries like defense, emergency response, agriculture, and logistics. Autonomy and robotics aren’t future concepts—they’re happening now, and the nations that lead in this space will shape economic power and global security.
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