National Security Innovation Network

Connects startups, universities, and innovators with defense partners through challenge-based programs, networking, and accelerator pathways.

NSIN (National Security Innovation Network) is a program office inside the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) that connects startups, universities, and academia with national security problems — running hackathons, accelerators, and prize challenges rather than issuing direct grants. NSIN was founded in 2016 as MD5 National Security Technology Accelerator and renamed NSIN in 2019 when transferred into DIU; it was formally integrated into DIU in July 2023 with financial and HR functions centralized.

NSIN's core output is network-building and human-capital development across three portfolios: a Regional Network Team embedded in major innovation hubs, a Talent Portfolio engaging students and academics, and a Venture Portfolio supporting early-stage dual-use companies through programs like Vector (pre-Series A accelerator, $50K prize pool), Propel (2-month accelerator), and Hacking for Defense (university course). Small amounts of prize and catalytic funding flow through these programs; significant downstream R&D contracts come from connected DoD entities, not from NSIN directly.