Langley Air Force Base, Va. -- Air Combat Command is preparing to kick off its annual innovation campaign.
The COMACC Innovation Challenge is a MAJCOM-wide program, designed to foster creativity, across ACC, as well as to provide support, advocacy and possibly funding for airmen-developed projects.
“Our airmen have amazing innovative ideas but don’t always know how to move them forward,” said Andrea Hagen, chief of Capability Development Branch. “The COMACC Innovation Challenge is a great opportunity for ACC airmen to highlight their efforts that align with ACC priorities and potentially receive support, advocacy, and/or funding in the process.”
In late May, ACC’s Capability Development Branch will send out its initial call for submissions. Airmen should submit their innovations to the VISION platform by August 29, 2025, to be considered for the challenge.
While separate from the Department of the Air Force’s Spark Tank competition, which is expected to open for submissions in August, Airmen can submit their ideas to both campaigns if desired.
COMACC Innovation Challenge projects should:
- Address one or more of the ACC Focus Areas (Readiness, Modernization, ACE and Taking Care of Airmen)
- Be within ACC authority to complete, and be advanced enough to be on contract by the end of FY26
- While larger projects will be considered, Airmen should aim for projects to be no more than $250K in order to fund as many projects as possible.
Following the submission window end, up to five project teams will be selected to present their ideas to COMACC and to a panel of ACC senior leaders for a chance to receive support and/or funding.
“We want to encourage airmen to seek support from their supervisors, unit Spark Cells, or their wing Continuous Improvement and Innovation Process Managers wherever they can,” said Hagen. “Whether or not they submit a project for the Challenge, all ACC airmen are invited to join the ACC Innovation Working Group.”
Airmen interested in joining the campaign or learning more can reach out to the campaign managers by emailing: acc.a58x.innovationworkflow@us.af.mil