In 2024, the U.S. Army xTech Program launched its xTech Scalable AI 2 prize competition supported by the PM IS&A and its modernization initiative, Project Linchpin. This unique prize competition, which allows small businesses to demonstrate world-class commercial AI technologies, has four rounds:

During round one, Cenith pitched a white paper highlighting our adaptation of our PATH software to perform Automated COA Generation and Threat Visualization for IPB. The judges said we had a “solid performance,” were “perfectly aligned with the Army’s problem statement,” and they selected our technology to advance to the next round. We were invited to present our technology at a virtual event in August.

During the second round, which included a Virtual Technology Pitch, The judges said our project was “perfect for a Phase II SBIR effort” and had “impressive commercial potential.” They also said we had a “precisely defined project plan to deliver an AUSA demo,” yet we were still surprised and delighted when they selected our team to advance to the finals.

In October, CEO Kris Pruitt and Product Manager Cameron Barton traveled to AUSA to present our solution live at the xTech Finals for the third round of the competition. We were up against 12 tough competitors, but the judges agreed we had a “highly relevant” and “convincing” demo and, after a round of intense questions, determined we were a “highly capable team” with a “credible transition strategy.”  Cenith took home a third-place, $25k win in the competition. We also finished first in our category and received an invite to submit to the 4th round of the competition, a Direct to Phase II SBIR. Cenith continues to develop its PATH technology and looks forward to submitting its Direct to Phase II response.