Round Rock Defense Innovation Fund

What is the Defense Innovation Fund?

The Defense Innovation Fund (DIF) is a grant program by the Round Rock Chamber to spur and accelerate the growth of defense innovation-focused companies at various levels of revenue and funding stages during the startup lifecycle. It’s designed to grow with the company as it scales, supplementing growth during the timeliest need in the startup lifecycle. DIF grants range from $10-50K and will be awarded through an application process and on a case-by-case basis.

Who should apply? Startups with a focus on defense innovation interested in having operations in Round Rock. Companies will be evaluated by a team of industry experts to determine grant amounts.

What are the requirements? Companies must be within the defense innovation sector and retain HQ/significant operations in Round Rock for a minimum of 3 years; must commit to bring new operations or grow existing operations in Round Rock; and must complete an annual performance survey with the Chamber.

Ready to apply?

If you meet the requirements listed above, fill out your application today! We’re excited to support the next wave of defense innovators here in Round Rock.

Apply Today

Round Rock Advantage

200+ employees at The U.S. Army Transformation and Training Command's Resource Operations Center in Round Rock

50 miles from Fort Hood, largest active duty armored post in the U.S.

3,000 Total Aerospace, Aviation and Defense Workforce in Greater Austin Metro

159,000 Veterans in the area with security clearance

3,400 Annual Military Exits from military bases in the seven counties surrounding Round Rock

33 is the Median Age

30K Annual Graduates from area two-and four-year educational institutions

Bold Incentives

Round Rock and the State of Texas offer a variety of economic incentives for aerospace and defense companies considering a relocation or expansion into the market. Incentives are performance-based and tied to job creation, capital investment and average wages, among other factors.

Business-Friendly

When polled about community strengths, Round Rock-area businesses ranked city/community leadership, business environment, and quality of life at the top of their list with high marks. Texas also imposes no corporate or individual income tax, allowing companies to grow their bottom line while employees enjoy a high-value quality of life.

A couple walks across a bridge with their baby in a stroller at Old Settler's Park.

Property Tax Rebates

The City of Round Rock offers property tax abatements for new business construction and existing industry expansions.

Workforce Training

Grants are available through the Skills Development Fund for employer-customized workforce training programs in partnership with a local Texas community college.