COLUMBIA, Md. — August 19, 2026 — New capability will accelerate the transition of commercial technologies into the DISA Coalition Information Environment
The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory partnered with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) via a Partnership Intermediary Agreement to award the Technology Advancement Center a PIA service order for the operation of DISA’s Unclassified Proving Ground. The award establishes TAC as a strategic innovation partner supporting the rapid evaluation, integration, and transition of emerging commercial technologies into the Department of War’s Coalition Information Environment.
The DISA Unclassified Proving Ground creates a secure, collaborative environment where government, industry, academia, and non-traditional technology companies can rapidly validate and mature innovative technologies before they transition into operational defense environments. By reducing barriers between commercial innovation and the DoW mission needs, the UPG will accelerate the delivery of advanced capabilities to warfighters and coalition partners.
“This award reflects DISA’s commitment to accelerating innovation through collaboration with industry and trusted intermediary organizations,” said Chris Hollifield, CEO of the Technology Advancement Center. “The Unclassified Proving Ground provides an environment where commercial technology developers can engage directly with government mission partners, rapidly demonstrate capabilities, and significantly reduce the time required to transition innovative solutions into operational use. TAC is honored to help bridge the gap between commercial innovation and the Department of War’s evolving mission needs.”
The establishment of the UPG reinforces TAC’s role as a trusted nonprofit innovation intermediary dedicated to connecting government mission challenges with the nation’s most promising commercial technologies. Through this capability, TAC will continue to accelerate technology transition, reduce adoption risk, and strengthen the technological advantage of the United States and its allies.
