

401 Tech Bridge and MassChallenge partnered on our first Blue Technology Accelerator & Fellowship Program in 2021, which focused on identifying young companies developing technology with potential for commercial and government applications with potential to expand opportunities for the region’s ocean-based economy, particularly in the undersea, maritime, and offshore energy sectors. Working with teams of judges with expertise in startups, technology, and the blue tech sector, 401 Tech Bridge and MassChallenge identified 12 high-quality blue tech startups and 4 early stage “fellows” who participated in a specialized program that utilized MassChallenge’s proven startup acceleration methodology and leveraged 401 Tech Bridge’s network, industry connections and programmatic expertise to jumpstart innovation in the blue technology sector and foster growth in the region as it recovers from the economic ramifications caused by COVID-19.
Members of the cohort recognized the high value of the experience, which provided opportunities to connect with potential customers and funders, including prime contractors, the Navy, MITRE, the offshore wind sector, and more.
Watch the cohort pitch their companies in the recording of our December 16 Tech Demo now!
Startup Name | Industry |
Hardware & Robotics | |
Telecommunications & Mobile | |
Hardware & Robotics | |
Hardware & Robotics | |
Hardware & Robotics | |
Enterprise Software | |
Aerospace | |
Energy/Clean Tech Generation | |
Hardware & Robotics | |
Enterprise Software | |
Energy/Clean Tech Efficiency | |
Environment | |
Manufacturing | |
Materials | |
Marine Technology | |
Manufacturing |
The program attracted 50 applicants with expertise in a variety of technical domains:
• Undersea/unmanned vehicles
• Sensors (concepts, signal processing techniques)
• IT communications
• Data transfer
• Cybersecurity
• Digital twins
• Modeling & simulation
• Composite materials
• Electronic systems
• Oceanographic research
• Materials certification
• Artificial intelligence/machine learning (autonomy & data science)
View the recording of the kick-off event that was held on September 14, 2021 and provided additional details about the application and selection process, the program schedule, and included a panel presentation by blue technology startups that have previously completed the MassChallenge program.
401 Tech Bridge is partnering with the NavalX Northeast Tech Bridge to continue supporting blue tech start-ups, as part of the 2022 MassChallenge Safety and Security track. Details to follow soon.