DHS Seeks Wearable First Responder Tech From Startup Companies

The Department of Homeland Security currently explores startup-developed wearable technologies that work to support first responders through a business accelerator program of the DHS science and technology directorate.

DHS said it seeks startup companies that can provide body-worn electronics, advanced sensors and gear-embedded voice and data communication technologies as part of the EMERGE 2016: Wearable Technology accelerator program.

The department added the program builds on the results of the EMERGE Accelerator Pilot in 2015 and aims to ease communications between firefighters, police and emergency medical technicians.

Interested participants can submit applications until Sept. 2.

Chosen companies will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their technology to first responders, industry partners and investors, DHS noted.

DHS S&T collaborates with the Center for Innovative Technology, TechNexus and the Energy Department‘s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to support EMERGE.