Summary:
The U.S. Navy is streamlining procurement processes to better collaborate with startups, under CTO Justin Fanelli's leadership.
A new innovation adoption kit aims to bridge the gap between prototype and production, tackling the "Valley of Death".
The Navy's horizon model focuses on problem-solving rather than predefined solutions, encouraging private sector innovation.
Via, a cybersecurity startup, achieved a pilot deployment with the Navy in under six months, showcasing the new approach's effectiveness.
Fanelli's personal mission to modernize Navy tech is driven by his commitment to service and innovation.
The U.S. Navy is undergoing a significant transformation in how it collaborates with startups, moving away from traditional, slow-moving procurement processes to a more agile and problem-focused approach. Under the leadership of Justin Fanelli, the Navy's Chief Technology Officer, the institution has been actively reducing bureaucratic hurdles and shortening procurement cycles that once deterred innovative startups from working with the military.
A New Era of Partnership
Fanelli emphasizes the Navy's openness to business and partnerships, stating, "We're more open for business and partnerships than we've ever been before." This shift is facilitated by the Navy's innovation adoption kit, designed to bridge the gap between prototype and production, often referred to as the "Valley of Death."
The Horizon Model
Adopting a horizon model inspired by McKinsey's innovation framework, the Navy now focuses on identifying problems rather than prescribing solutions. This approach allows for a more collaborative and flexible engagement with startups, enabling solutions to emerge from the private sector's creativity and expertise.
Success Stories
One notable success is the partnership with Via, a cybersecurity startup, which moved from a Request for Proposal to pilot deployment in under six months. This rapid progression highlights the Navy's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance its operations.
Personal Drive for Change
Fanelli's personal commitment to overhauling Navy tech stems from his desire to serve, despite being disqualified from military service due to a lung issue. His diverse background in defense, intelligence, and open-source initiatives has equipped him with a unique perspective on fostering innovation within the Navy.
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