November 13, 2025

Advancing Innovation Across the Commonwealth: VTCRC Visits REaKTOR in Hampton Roads

Virginia’s innovation economy is strongest when regional partners come together. During a recent visit to the REaKTOR Technology Innovation Center, Mallory Tuttle of Virginia Tech and Chelsea Olivieri of Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center Newport News (VTCRC) saw firsthand how Hampton Roads is rapidly emerging as a destination for entrepreneurship and next-generation technology.

What they found at REaKTOR was a thriving community of founders working at the intersection of aerospace, sustainability, advanced manufacturing, mobility, defense, and workforce innovation. The momentum building in Hampton Roads reflects a broader statewide movement. One that VTCRC is proud to help strengthen through collaboration, shared resources, and aligned programming.

A Glimpse into Hampton Roads’ Innovation Strength

The companies shaping the future at REaKTOR demonstrate the ingenuity that defines the region:

  • Tidal Flight, named “Startup to Watch” at 757 TechNite, is developing Polaris, a hybrid-electric amphibious aircraft supported by a $1.25M AFWERX SBIR Direct to Phase II award. Advancing sustainable aviation in a region shaped by coastal mobility.
  • HerculE-Q is creating wireless charging platforms for e-bikes and e-scooters, supporting the transition to cleaner urban transportation.
  • MechaStructure is accelerating construction innovation with modular robotics platforms designed to help industry build smarter and faster.
  • VroomBrick, is transforming the real estate experience with a digital platform that makes home buying more transparent and efficient.
  • Psionic, named “Emerging Company of the Year” at 757 TechNite. Pioneering precision Doppler LiDAR used for autonomous vehicles and lunar landing systems.
  • Pancopia is adapting NASA-designed water recycling technologies for agricultural and humanitarian applications.
  • Good Steward is improving workforce development through its Colab.Set.Go platform, supporting individuals with disabilities and strengthening employers across the region.

These companies are helping shape the future of Hampton Roads and contributing to Virginia’s growing reputation as a global innovation hub.

Collaboration That Strengthens Virginia’s Innovation Network

VTCRC’s visit to REaKTOR reflects our commitment to building a connected Commonwealth. One where founders can access resources and opportunities across regions. Our partnership with Innovate Hampton Roads deepens this mission by:

  • Connecting academic research with real-world commercialization
  • Supporting startups with business development, funding pathways, and specialized expertise
  • Strengthening Virginia’s innovation corridor from Blacksburg to Newport News and beyond

These collaborations complement statewide VTCRC initiatives including the Secure Energy Future Center (SEFC) and the Entrepreneur Resource Center (ERC)—efforts designed to elevate founders, accelerate technology adoption, and generate economic impact across Virginia.

Building What’s Next—Together

Hampton Roads is a launchpad for innovators across the region, helping lead Virginia into its next era of opportunity. We are proud to collaborate with Innovate Hampton Roads and REaKTOR as they empower startups solving some of today’s most significant challenges.