Getting to Yes: How Little Place Labs is Putting Big Ideas and Innovation to Work for Defense

📑 Published in SFA Magazine Spring 2025 - Issue 14

Innovation in defense technology has long been driven by large, established companies. However, a new wave of startups is proving that size is no limitation when it comes to big ideas. Little Place Labs (LPL) exemplifies this shift. As a company supported by AFWERX, LPL is at the forefront of advancing real-time space insights. By developing machine-learning applications that run directly on satellites, we enable real-time domain awareness across various environments, including vessel detection, airfield monitoring, and asset tracking. Our work highlights how edge computing can revolutionize surveillance and response times in defense operations, ensuring faster, more effective decision-making.

But breaking into the defense sector is no easy feat. From navigating acquisition processes to proving the operational value of emerging technologies, small businesses must overcome significant hurdles. Our journey with the Department of Defense (DoD) has been one of persistence, adaptability, and strategic partnerships - a true case of getting to yes.

Navigating the DoD’s Defense Tech Gauntlet

For a small company, working with the DoD can feel like navigating a complex system of acquisition processes, funding mechanisms, and evolving mission priorities. Traditional defense procurement cycles often favor incumbents, making it difficult for emerging companies to break in. However, programs like AFWERX, SPACEWERX, SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research), and STRATFI/TACFI funding have provided pathways for companies to demonstrate capabilities in real-world scenarios.

Our journey in defense innovation was recently featured in The Wall Street Journal, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs that startups face when bringing cutting-edge technology into the defense sector. One of the key lessons we have learned is that success requires more than just technical excellence - it demands deep engagement with the defense ecosystem and a strong network of mission-driven partners.

We have built valuable relationships with organizations that support defense innovation, such as Catalyst Campus, Decisive Point, Capital Factory, Techstars, Starburst. These groups, along with initiatives from the Space Force Association (SFA), Space Systems Command’s (SSC) Front Door, the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and NSIN (National Security Innovation Network), are actively fostering collaborations that push the boundaries of what space missions can achieve. By working with these partners, we have gained critical insights into operational needs, technology integration, and transition pathways.

The evolving landscape of defense technology demands speed, adaptability, and mission alignment - qualities that small businesses like LPL bring to the table. By navigating this gauntlet strategically, we are proving that innovation in space and defense is no longer the sole domain of large primes but is being shaped by agile startups with bold ideas.

Leveraging Defense Expertise and Veterans

A key driver of our success has been our ability to tap into the expertise of defense veterans and experienced operators who deeply understand the challenges of national security. Innovation in defense is not just about technology - it is about passionately solving real problems for those on the ground, in the air, or in space.

At LPL, we are proud to have David Braithwaite on board, a leader with extensive experience in military operations, intelligence processes, and national security. David brings firsthand operational knowledge that strengthens our ability to develop AI/ML-driven solutions tailored for defense applications. As David himself puts it:

"I want to use my knowledge of military operations, intelligence processes, and national security issues to develop LPL and our team to become the best provider of AI/ML solutions."

Beyond our internal team, we also benefit from the strategic guidance of Charlie McGillis and Ross Morrell, both retired U.S. Air Force Colonels with decades of leadership in national security, space operations, and defense technology. As advisors, they provide crucial insights on defense strategy, operational integration, and government partnerships, helping us navigate the complex landscape of defense innovation.

By leveraging veteran leadership, operational insight, and deep defense expertise, LPL ensures that our technology directly serves warfighter needs and makes real impact.

A Global Team Powering a Bold Vision

While our mission is deeply tied to U.S. national security, our approach to talent is global. Space is an inherently international domain, and we have embraced a diverse, globally distributed team to bring together the best minds in software engineering, aerospace, AI, and defense intelligence.

We carefully recruit talent from around the world, ensuring that we bring in the right expertise to drive innovation while remaining aligned with our mission. This approach allows us to leverage diverse perspectives and specialized skill sets, ensuring our solutions are adaptable, resilient, and effective for multi-domain, multinational defense applications.

At the same time, we remain focused on ensuring our team and technology are mission-aligned, working closely with partners and stakeholders who share our commitment to advancing national security and space capabilities. This balance enables us to stay at the cutting edge of innovation while meeting the needs of the USSF and allied defense organizations.

A North Star That Keeps Us Moving Forward

At LPL, our journey is fueled by a deep sense of purpose and mission-driven innovation. Our guiding principles reflect this commitment:

• Purpose: United by passion, we innovate with curiosity and fulfill with perseverance to shape a secure and brighter future for our Little Place - Earth, and beyond.

• Mission: Revolutionize space and aeronautics operations with intelligent systems that deliver real-time, mission-critical insights for national security and commercial sectors.

• Vision: A world where decision-makers confidently tackle global challenges by making informed, timely, and impactful decisions.

Pursuing this vision requires bold thinking, relentless problem-solving, and the courage to challenge legacy systems that no longer serve the needs of a rapidly evolving security landscape. While the path for small businesses in defense is not easy, we remain undeterred. We are here to go all the way, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in space-based intelligence.