Building Momentum - Comprehensive Analysis Report

Summary

Building Momentum, headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia, is a veteran-owned science and engineering consulting group. The company's core mission is to solve problems creatively, efficiently, and empathetically, while inspiring and empowering its clients and community. They are recognized as award-winning innovators and problem solvers, delivering advantage through advanced training, rapid prototyping, and fostering innovative problem-solving in various sectors. Building Momentum plays a significant role in empowering individuals and organizations with critical problem-solving skills and advanced technological capabilities, particularly in defense, education, and corporate environments.

1. Strategic Focus & Objectives

Core Objectives

Building Momentum's strategic objectives are centered on empowering clients with critical problem-solving skills and technological capabilities.

• Equip Clients with Creative Thinking: Fostering innovative approaches to complex challenges.

• Build Confidence: Empowering clients to tackle difficulties with assurance.

• Increase Speed in Problem-Solving: Developing efficient methods for rapid resolution of issues.

Specialization Areas

Building Momentum specializes in delivering bespoke solutions and training across several key areas:

• Rapid Prototyping (Innovation Designed): Transforming complex challenges into human-centered solutions through expert design and rapid prototyping.

• Corporate Team Building (Innovation Elevated): Providing immersive, design-thinking workshops that build trust and empower teams through experimentation and collaboration.

• Technology Training (Innovation Bootcamp): Developing powerful tech capabilities through hands-on training in emerging tools, preparing participants to solve complex challenges. Since 2014, Building Momentum has trained the Department of Defense with Innovation Boot Camp globally.

• Youth Education (Innovation Academy): Empowering young innovators through hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning in a space equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines.

Target Markets

Building Momentum primarily targets the following market segments:

• Defense organizations

• Educational institutions

• Corporate entities

• Entrepreneurial organizations

2. Financial Overview

Funding History

Building Momentum is reported to have an estimated annual revenue ranging from $10 million to $25 million. Specific details regarding total funds raised, notable investors, or the intended utilization of capital are not publicly disclosed.

3. Product Pipeline

Key Products/Services

Building Momentum develops and delivers tangible solutions alongside its training programs:

• Programmable Maritime Sonobuoy (SEDNA):

• Description: A low-cost, programmable aquatic sensing platform designed for dynamic mission needs.

• Development Stage: Actively developed and refined for deployment.

• Target Market/Condition: Defense and maritime surveillance.

• Key Features and Benefits: Adaptability and affordability for long-term deployment.

• NDAA-Compliant Indoor Drone:

• Description: A modular, crash-tested drone built for close-quarters reconnaissance, indoor training, and drone racing.

• Development Stage: Fully developed and implemented in training programs.

• Target Market/Condition: Defense, law enforcement, and specialized training.

• Key Features and Benefits: Carbon fiber frame, snap-on Formlabs SLS nylon ducts, crash-tested resilience, field-repairable, mission-adaptable.

• RF DECOY Emitter:

• Description: An adaptable, hand-portable or sUAS-deliverable RF Decoy that mimics squad-level communications using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components.

• Development Stage: Developed and in use for tactical training.

• Target Market/Condition: Defense and security applications.

• Key Features and Benefits: Supports wide frequency ranges, flexible radio mimicry.

• 3D Printed 7" Drone Frame (Starling):

• Description: A modular drone design optimized for SLS nylon on the Formlabs Fuse 1+.

• Development Stage: Developed and utilized in prototyping and training.

• Target Market/Condition: Field use, rapid iteration for defense and prototyping.

• Key Features and Benefits: Adaptability, durability, ease of repair, rigidity, impact-resistance, lightweight.

4. Technology & Innovation

Technology Stack

Building Momentum leverages a robust technological platform and innovative methodologies:

• Core Platforms and Technologies: Development and utilization of proprietary platforms such as SEDNA, the NDAA-compliant indoor drone, and the RF Decoy emitter. The Starling drone frame exemplifies their expertise in additive manufacturing.

• Scientific Methodologies: They employ design thinking, hands-on experiential learning, and project-based approaches. Their Innovation Academy and Innovation Bootcamp deeply integrate STEAM principles, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and practical problem-solving. This includes techniques in 3D printing, laser cutting, CNC machining, robotics, circuitry, and coding.

• Technical Capabilities: Expertise extends to explaining the scientific principles behind practical skills, such as oxidation, gas effects, and plasma creation in welding, linking practical application with scientific understanding.

5. Leadership & Management

Executive Team

• Tom Sullivan (Chief Operating Officer):

• Background: Oversees day-to-day operations. Previously Director of Training, where he established Innovation Hubs globally, contributing to significant company growth.

• Achievements: Created and established Innovation Hubs globally.

• Contributions: Drives operational excellence and expansion.

• Education: Degree in creative engineering and product design from the University of the West of England.

• Cheyanne Dwyer (Chief Strategy Officer):

• Background: Trained strategist and facilitator specializing in innovative ideas and team collaboration. Leads corporate team-building for government and civilian agencies.

• Achievements: Named to Alexandria's "40 Under 40" list in 2021. Adjunct Lecturer at the Corcoran School of the Arts & Design at The George Washington University.

• Contributions: Enhances communication and collaboration in corporate training.

• Edward Ash (Design, Fabrication, Training, and Special Projects / Contract Administrator):

• Background: Involved in design, fabrication, and various training aspects. Contract administrator for their GSA Schedule.

• Contributions: Manages critical design, fabrication, and administrative functions.

• James Bellucci (Training Logistics & Senior Associate of Training):

• Background: Associate Trainer learning new technologies and problem-solving. Consults on technology, art-making, and aesthetics. Served as an adjunct professor of photography.

• Education: BFA in photography from Shepherd University and an MFA in Imaging Arts and Science from the Rochester Institute of Technology.

• Contributions: Manages training logistics and contributes expertise in technology integration.

• Patrick Joyce (Education Associate):

• Contributions: Plays a role in the company's educational programs.

• Akshta Suresh (Senior Research and Development Associate):

• Contributions: Involved in research and development activities.

• Moises Pena (Training/Prototyping Associate):

• Contributions: Works in training and prototyping initiatives.

• Cecily Wynne (Manager of Education):

• Contributions: Manages the educational programs offered by the company.

Recent Leadership Changes

No major recent leadership changes have been publicly disclosed beyond the established executive team.

6. Talent and Growth Indicators

Hiring Trends and Workforce

Building Momentum operates with an estimated team of 11-50 employees. The company's consistent engagement in advanced technology training programs, particularly for military personnel in 3D printing, robotics, circuitry, and coding, signifies a strong internal focus on professional development and expertise. This external training focus also indicates a dedicated internal team capable of delivering advanced instruction.

• Company Growth Trajectory Indicators:

• Regular training programs for clients, including military personnel, on emerging technologies.

• Involvement in community engagement initiatives such as the "Desks for Kids" program and "Breaking Down the S.T.E.A.M. Door" event.

• Continuous refinement of products and training programs based on real-world application.

7. Social Media Presence and Engagement

Digital Footprint

Building Momentum maintains a professional social media presence, primarily on LinkedIn. Their digital content frequently highlights:

• Brand Messaging: Emphasizing innovation bootcamps, community programs, and their unique problem-solving approach.

• Community Engagement: Showcasing initiatives like their Innovation Academy and partnerships for educational outreach.

• Thought Leadership: Positioning themselves as experts in rapid prototyping, design thinking, and advanced technology training.

8. Recognition and Awards

Industry Recognition

Building Momentum has received significant industry recognition:

• Inc. 2021 Best in Business List: Awarded a gold medal in Education, acknowledging their quality and innovation in the field.

• Recognized as award-winning innovators and problem solvers across various sectors.

9. Competitive Analysis

Major Competitors

Building Momentum operates across several competitive landscapes:

Rapid Prototyping & Defense Technology:

• VTG Defense: Focuses on rapid development, fielding of prototypes, and precision fabrication for naval construction and defense.

• RCO Engineering: Provides rapid prototyping and precision manufacturing for technology demonstrations in defense.

• Pro-Fab Inc.: Offers defense prototype and development services with an emphasis on precision engineering and tailored solutions.

STEAM Education (Alexandria, VA):

• Scholaris LLC: Offers STEM learning for K-12 children with a project-based approach.

• Capital Youth Empowerment Program (CYEP): Focuses on accessible STEM education and career readiness.

• Kidcreate Studios: Provides STEAM art activities for children, emphasizing creative problem-solving and experimentation.

Corporate Innovation Training:

• Silicon Valley Innovation Center: Offers corporate training programs focusing on innovation, customized to business needs.

• EducateMe: Specializes in developing employee skills and mindsets for professional development.

• Nomadic (acquired by Guild): Focuses on building employee skills and networks for professional upskilling.

• AllenComm: Specializes in developing employee skills and resilience within organizations.

10. Market Analysis

Market Overview

Building Momentum operates within several dynamic and growing markets:

• Rapid Prototyping in Aerospace and Defense:

• Market Size: Valued at $4,370 million in 2024.

• Growth Potential: Projected to reach $10 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of approximately 7.8%.

• Key Trends: Driven by increasing demand for rapid innovation, rising military expenditure, and advancements in additive manufacturing and 3D printing. North America is a dominant market due to significant investment in R&D.

• 3D Printing Materials Market:

• Market Size: Valued at $3.6 billion in 2024.

• Growth Potential: Projected to surge to $41.1 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 25.1%.

• Key Trends: Fueled by increased applications across automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and industrial sectors, directly supporting prototyping activities.

• STEAM Education and Corporate Innovation Training:

• Growth Potential: Driven by the increasing need for a skilled and adaptable workforce in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

• Key Trends: High demand for critical thinking, problem-solving, and creative thinking skills. Corporate training is crucial for building resilience and driving innovation within organizations.

11. Strategic Partnerships

Building Momentum actively engages in strategic collaborations:

• MatterHackers:

• Nature of Partnership: Longstanding relationship providing hands-on training on 3D printers for US Navy and Marine bases under a five-year contract.

• Strategic Benefits: Expands reach and impact within military training.

• Department of Defense Agencies (including Special Operations forces):

• Nature of Partnership: Provides unique on-the-job training in advanced technologies such as 3D printing and drone building.

• Strategic Benefits: Solidifies expertise and market position within defense.

• Local Community Organizations (e.g., Carpenters Union, Alexandria City Schools, DC Virginia Tech chapter):

• Nature of Partnership: Collaborates on educational initiatives such as the "Desks for Kids" program and "Breaking Down the S.T.E.A.M. Door" event.

• Strategic Benefits: Fosters community engagement and supports youth education.

• Ready, Set, Help and Pockets Change:

• Nature of Partnership: Collaborates on events like "Breaking Down the S.T.E.A.M. Door."

• Strategic Benefits: Extends educational outreach and community presence.

• Dope Focus:

• Nature of Partnership: Collaborates to curate art installations within Building Momentum's gallery space.

• Strategic Benefits: Enhances cultural offerings and appeal of their physical space.

12. Operational Insights

• Current Market Position: Building Momentum holds a strong position as a service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB), which provides a distinct competitive advantage, particularly in securing government contracts.

• Competitive Advantages:

• Unique Interactive Learning Methods: Combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on application, tested in various environments.

• Rapid Prototyping Capabilities: Ability to quickly transform concepts into tangible solutions.

• Customized Solutions: Focus on empowering individuals to solve problems creatively through tailored instruction.

• Operational Strengths:

• Expertise in advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies.

• Diverse client portfolio spanning defense, education, and corporate sectors.

• Operates "The Garden" as an event space in Alexandria, which hosts community programs and provides coworking opportunities, enhancing its physical presence and community connection.

• Areas for Improvement: Public disclosure of detailed financial performance and funding rounds could enhance transparency and attract broader investment opportunities.

13. Future Outlook

Strategic Roadmap

Building Momentum's strategic roadmap prioritizes continuous innovation in technology and training.

• Planned Initiatives: Expanding powerful tech capabilities and hands-on learning, particularly in advanced manufacturing and drone technology.

• Growth Strategies: Leveraging expertise in rapid prototyping and custom-tailored programs to address evolving market demands.

• Expansion Opportunities: Further empowering future innovators through its Innovation Academy and extending impactful training for defense and corporate clients.

• Future Challenges and Mitigation Strategies: Navigating a dynamic market that increasingly demands adaptable problem-solving and technological proficiency. Mitigation involves continued investment in cutting-edge technology and instructional methodologies.