DREAMS Coalition

The Pittsburgh Technology Council and Keystone Space Collaborative have partnered to launch the DREAMS Coalition, a new coalition designed to propel advanced technology startups in aerospace, robotics, AI, and manufacturing. 

Supported by a grant from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, the DREAMS Coalition initiative is designed to accelerate the growth of Pittsburgh’s DREAMS (Data, Robotics, Energy, AI, Manufacturing, and Security) industries by leveraging the region’s unique strengths and fostering collaboration among key partners, including the Pittsburgh Technology Council, Keystone Space Collaborative and Parallax Advanced Research. 

Located in Bakery Square, the DREAMS Coalition provides a state-of-the-art coworking facility with space for 30 members, featuring 11 rooms, including private offices and flexible conference and co-working areas. Eligible members can access Keystone Innovation Zone (KIZ) tax credits, further incentivizing growth. 

The initiative focuses on four pillars: 

1. Federal Funding Assistance: Assist companies in securing funding through various programs such as Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) contracts, procurement contracts, grants, and other non-dilutive mechanisms. Provide concierge advisory services for dual use business development strategy. 
2. Industry Connections: Build relationships with aerospace, autonomy, and AI customers to align technologies with market needs. 
3. Investor Engagement: Facilitate introductions to angel investors and venture capitalists to help startups secure growth funding. 
4. Collaborative Workspace Available: Provide no-cost co-working office space with access to mentorship, resources, and networking to support startup growth and collaboration. 

Anticipated programming includes open office hours with APEX, workshops on scaling innovations, and networking events to foster a tight-knit ecosystem, connecting entrepreneurs with the tools and relationships needed to succeed. 

Companies interested in participating in the DREAMS Coalition must complete a survey at: https://forms.gle/v3j6RdWVjRPZsaqb8. Upon completion of the survey, a DREAMS Team member will be in contact to discuss next steps.  

Upcoming Federal Funding Workshops:

Getting Government-Ready & Navigating the Funding Landscape
Date: Wed, September 3
Time: 10:00-11:30 am

Get ready for success in the federal market. Learn what it means to be “government-ready” through essential registrations, certifications, compliance steps, and the infrastructure needed for government work. Explore the federal funding landscape, including types of opportunities, agency missions, and how to use market research tools.

Smart Bidding, Winning Proposals, & Long-Term Success
Date: Wed, September 17
Time: 10:00-11:30 am

Learn how to identify relevant federal funding opportunities, make informed bid/no-bid decisions, align with agency needs, and write competitive proposals. We’ll also cover long-term strategies for using federal funding to drive growth.

Register for both HERE