NORTHERN VIRGINIA INTERNATIONAL
SOFT LANDING ACCELERATOR
Innovation District Map and NISA Brochure
NISA Brochure
Get a concise overview of the NISA program, including core benefits and what participants can expect.
Program Overview
The Northern Virginia International Soft Landing Accelerator (NISA) is where ambitious global startups come to make their mark in the U.S. market. Powered by George Mason University and Naugen and anchored in the Innovation District, a collaboration among Prince William County, the City of Manassas, and George Mason, NISA offers the connections, mentorship, and resources to help innovators land, launch, and scale in one of America’s fastest-growing innovation hubs.
Program Highlights
Soft Landing, Strong Start
Launch your U.S. presence with confidence. From entity setup to investor introductions, NISA’s hands-on team makes your transition seamless.
Mentorship and Coaching
Accelerate your growth with personalized guidance from serial entrepreneurs, investors, and market veterans who know exactly what it takes to break into, and thrive in, the U.S. market.
Investor Network Access
Pitch to the right people, not just anyone. NISA opens doors to venture capitalists, angels, and strategic partners ready to fund the next wave of global innovation.
Research and Innovation Resources
Turn bold ideas into breakthrough products. Gain access to George Mason’s cutting-edge labs and core facilities for R&D, validation, and collaboration with world-class researchers.
Global Community and Ecosystem
Join a powerhouse network of founders, scientists, and industry leaders driving innovation in Northern Virginia’s dynamic Innovation District, where global ambition meets U.S. opportunity.
Program Phases
Every NISA cohort follows a clear, high-impact journey that helps international startups land confidently and grow rapidly in the U.S. market.
Phase I: Coaching and Strategy
Your U.S. expansion starts here
In this virtual phase, startups work side by side with experienced mentors, investors, and market experts to sharpen their business models and perfect their pitch. Participants leave with a clear strategy, a stronger network, and the tools to compete for selection into Phase II.
Highlights
- Hands-on mentoring and investor-led workshops
- Pitch coaching and multi-round competitions
- Business model and market-entry refinement
- Direct feedback from U.S. innovation leaders
Phase II: Landing and Growth
Bring your vision to life in Northern Virginia
Selected companies move into the heart of the Innovation District to launch and scale their U.S. operations. With access to lab and office space, investor introductions, and local expertise, founders gain the momentum to grow fast and stay strong.
Highlights
- U.S. entity setup and operational support
- Warm introductions to venture capitalists and angels
- Up to six months of complimentary lab or office space
- Business services for legal, real estate, and accounting needs
Eligibility and Focus Areas
We’re looking for trailblazing innovators ready to expand in the U.S. market.
Life Sciences: Biotech • Medtech • Diagnostics • Digital Health • Forensic Science
Who Can Apply
Startups and scale-ups with strong potential for U.S. market entry and growth. All stages are welcome, from research to revenue.
What We’re Looking For
Visionary founders developing novel, advanced, or unprecedented technologies, or blending disciplines to create breakthrough innovations.
FAQ
NISA opens doors to investors who believe in global innovation. Through Naugen and Mason Enterprise’s trusted networks, founders connect with venture capitalists, angels, and corporate partners ready to help them grow in the U.S. market. Participants also take part in Demo Days and receive expert guidance on securing U.S. grant funding.
From market entry to scale-up, NISA helps founders build lasting traction in the U.S. market. Companies gain one-on-one business development support, strategy mentoring, and buyer introductions. Participants also collaborate with George Mason researchers and CROs for R&D, validation, and clinical partnerships.
Behind every NISA company is a powerful network of mentors and experts. Founders work with Naugen’s international advisors, Mason Enterprise’s innovation leaders, and faculty from George Mason and Mason Korea, including the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) led by the Costello College of Business. Together, they guide strategy, build connections, and help founders turn opportunity into impact.
NISA welcomes innovators in life sciences and deep tech. The 2025 cohort will focus on biotechnology, medtech, diagnostics, and digital therapeutics, while also inviting applicants in AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, aerospace, defense, and energy innovation. Companies from early-stage through revenue-generating are encouraged to apply.
NISA invites international startups, U.S. companies outside Virginia, and organizations affiliated with or partnered to those groups. We’re looking for teams developing innovative technologies with leadership ready to engage in every stage of the program.
Yes. Active involvement from company leadership ensures the best results. Founders who participate directly in mentoring, investor sessions, and in-person activities get the most out of the NISA experience.
Key Dates and Application
Early Decision
November 30, 2025 – 11:59 P.M. (EST)
Final Application Deadline
December 15, 2025 – 11:59 P.M. (EST)
Rolling Review and Interviews
November–December 2025
Program Onboarding
Begins December 2025
Click below to complete the online application. Applicants are also asked to include a short, non-confidential presentation deck outlining their company and technology.
Questions (not applications) should be directed to:
Irene Kim (Naugen): [email protected]
Amy Adams (George Mason University): [email protected]
