Northstar Campus

UMass Lowell

Who We Are

The University of Massachusetts Lowell Applied Research Corporation (UMLARC) serves as the Partnership Intermediary for the U.S. Army Research Laboratory. UMLARC accelerates the advancement and transition potential of emerging and dual-use technologies, supports funding opportunities, fosters business growth, and strengthens national security—empowering innovators and ventures through targeted programs and partnerships.

The VC Challenge in Defense 

Defense and dual-use tech still face long timelines, complex acquisition, and the “Valley of Death.” With a vetted network of trusted VCs tied to commercial transition pathways, we will untap faster, scalable solutions to the Army’s toughest challenges.

DEVCOM ARL is building a vetted network of trusted VCs, aligned with mission needs, to accelerate dual-use tech from lab to field.

DEVCOM ARL logo

The DEVCOM ARL and UMLARC Venture Capital Engagement and Optimization Request for Proposal is open until 11:59 pm EST, 15 September 2025.

Submit RFP

Meet the 40 xTechOverwatch Finalists

Small businesses across the U.S. are working on innovative concepts for an advanced autonomous unmanned system (UAV, UGV, and/or sensor network) are competing in the xTechOverwatch competition.

View the finalists

Why This Matters

The University of Massachusetts Applied Lowell Research Corporation (UMLARC) Defense Venture Capital Circle is a strategic partnership between the UMLARC and DEVCOM Army Research Labs (ARL). Its mission is to identify, vet, and align venture capital firms with the operational demands and modernization objectives of the United States Army.

This initiative begins with a focused engagement in the Autonomous and Unmanned Systems (AUS) Division, anchored by the XTechOverwatch V Summit, scheduled to take place from October 27 to 29, 2025. Venture firms selected into the Circle will have the opportunity to:

  • Partner with high-potential small businesses showcased at the Summit
  • Align venture opportunities with Army SBIR award mechanisms and transition support.
  • Engage directly with Army program offices and operators
  • Gain insight into Army Transformation in Contact (TiC) priorities and operational needs

By facilitating early-stage investment and structured collaboration, the Circle accelerates the adoption of dual-use technology, strengthens the defense innovation base, and ensures that emerging capabilities are aligned with real-world mission requirements.

This effort is designed to create a repeatable model for venture engagement in national defense innovation—starting with AUS and expanding to other modernization priorities as the initiative evolves.