Montana State hosting DARPAConnect Regional Pop-Up on Sept. 24

BOZEMAN - Montana State University will host a DARPAConnect Regional Pop-Up on Wednesday, Sept. 24, bringing together industry, academia and startups to learn how to engage with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.

The event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Strand Union Building, and registration is required. In-person registration costs $100. There is a free virtual attendance option as well, but not all sessions are available online. Attendees can register online.

"Montana State University is proud to host DARPA on campus and provide this opportunity for Montana innovators to connect with some of the nation's top problem-solvers," said Alison Harmon, vice president for research and economic development at MSU.

DARPA is the U.S. Department of Defense's top research and development agency. It researches topics including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity and more.

At the event, attendees will learn about DARPA's mission and upcoming initiatives, as well as best practices for engaging with the agency's program managers and what makes a proposal stand out.

Those attending in person will take part in Q&A sessions to provide information on program timelines, funding and partnerships, and have the opportunity to network with DARPA officials and other innovators.

DARPAConnect launched in 2022, in collaboration with the Applied Research Institute, to broaden the agency's reach and foster new growth and collaboration with small businesses and educational institutions.

MSU is the largest research entity in Montana, with approximately $288 million in research expenditures in 2025. The Carnegie Classification has designated MSU as an R-1 institution for its high level of research activity, which contributes to the Montana and regional economies by creating jobs, providing contracts to businesses and applying research findings to benefit the people of the state and nation.