A New Collaboration Takes Flight: DART and HawkTower at FIRA-USA 2024

A critical new partnership and cosponsorship to boost the next-generation economy in California

The Drone Automation and Robotics Technologies (DART) initiative and HawkTower are proud to announce their collaboration as cosponsors of the Drone Pavilion at the forthcoming FIRA-USA 2024 event in October.

This partnership marks a milestone in our shared efforts to promote innovation and growth within the agriculture drone and robotics sectors. These sectors can increase farm productivity, reduce costs, and improve labor conditions.

At FIRA-USA 2024, the Drone Pavilion will display technological advancements and create a platform for startups to connect with capital, mentorship, and industry insights—a unique opportunity to bridge emerging California’s critical opportunities and imperatives with new startup formation.

Adding Expertise and Vision to HawkTower

This partnership is further strengthened by welcoming Josh Metz as a new Advisor to HawkTower. Josh, the Executive Director of DART, brings a wealth of expertise in drone, automation, and robotics technologies and deep, trusted connections across California. His approach and acumen with public-private partnerships will enhance HawkTower’s goal of nurturing a vibrant startup ecosystem in untapped regions of California. In parallel, Danny Bernstein, HawkTower’s Managing Partner, will serve as an Innovation Advisor to Josh, his staff, and DART’s board of directors.

“The HawkTower mission to access hidden talent and opportunities in California aligns with DART’s playbook and experiences,” said DART Executive Director Josh Metz. “We are thrilled to partner with HawkTower to elevate the Drone Pavilion at FIRA-USA 2024, and engage with Danny and the HawkTower team to realize inclusive economic development outcomes for underleveraged California.”

Looking Forward

The collaboration between DART and HawkTower is a commitment to an inclusive next-generation economy in California, agriculture, and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to support and lead innovations that promise to shape a dynamic and prosperous future for the underleveraged California tech community and beyond.