Every year, TechCrunch’s Startup Battlefield pitch contest draws thousands of applicants. We whittle those applications down to the top 200 contenders, and of them, the top 20 compete on the big stage to become the winner, taking home the Startup Battlefield Cup and a cash prize of $100,000. But the remaining 180 startups all blew us away as well in their respective categories and compete in their own pitch competition.
Here is the full list of the space and defense tech Startup Battlefield 200 selectees, along with a note on why they landed in the competition.
What it does: Airbility is creating two-seat manned electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Why it’s noteworthy: Its aircraft uses a unique fixed-wing-based VTOL technology combined with a distributed electric fan-jet propulsion system that makes them light, maneuverable, and versatile.
What it does: Astrum has developed a propellantless, electricity-only space propulsion system.
Why it’s noteworthy: The company says its patented tech eliminates the need to carry fuel onboard, which can extend the lifespans of crafts and lower costs and could enable deep space exploration.
What it does: Offers a fintech-esq risk analysis platform for spacecraft that enables them to obtain insurance coverage.
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Why it’s noteworthy: The company’s goal is to use insurability as a springboard to power new forms of credit for the space industry.
What it does: Endox offers AI systems that help inspect and maintain systems and equipment for the U.S. military.
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