ORLANDO – Sensors, artificial intelligence and autonomy are just three technology areas where Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) seeks support from small businesses as part of its Lockheed Martin Invests: Orlando initiative, which launched today.

The innovative program invites small businesses in Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties to submit proposals and compete for $100,000 to execute a variety of research and development projects. As part of the program, small businesses must also hire a Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) intern to support their efforts.

“Orlando is an emerging technology hub with an influx of start-ups, entrepreneurs and small businesses,” said Dr. Scott Roberson, director of Advanced and Special Programs at Lockheed Martin in Orlando. “Lockheed Martin has a strong history of innovation investments, supplier diversity initiatives and STEM projects and is fortunate to be experiencing significant business growth locally. This program will not only help us partner with local technical talent, but also strengthen the community’s business ecosystem.””

Senator Rick Scott said, “It’s great to see companies investing in Florida’s entrepreneurs and encouraging innovation throughout the industry. Florida’s small businesses are the backbone to our growing economy, and this investment will go a long way to support them and create more opportunities throughout our state.”

Dr. Roberson spoke with more than 100 Orlando executives and community leaders about Lockheed Martin Invests: Orlando during an event today with the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), which highlighted community innovation.

“Innovation is in Orlando’s DNA, thanks in large part to Lockheed Martin’s 60-plus year history in the region, when the company established a program to support the nation’s Space Race,” said Tim Giuliani, president and CEO of OEP. “This new program will further align the efforts of Orlando’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and increase collaboration among companies of all sizes within the Orlando region.”

Small businesses interested in Lockheed Martin Invests: Orlando must submit their proposals by April 20, 2020, with selections announced in May 2020. Detailed program requirements and proposal submission instructions can be found here.

For more information about Lockheed Martin’s Orlando operations, visit this site.