Xeriant recently announced a major strategic shift aimed at transforming the company into a high-velocity innovation engine. This move centers on the launch of Factor X, a specialized division designed to operate like a modern-day “Skunk Works.” Its mission: accelerate breakthrough technologies from discovery to commercial deployment.
Keith Duffy, Founder and CEO of Xeriant, recently discussed the rationale behind this pivot, outlining both the expanded role of FactorX and the leadership that will drive it forward.
A New Model for R&D
Factor X serves as the cotter pin connecting Xeriant’s broader enterprise. More than a research group, it functions as an integrated incubator and accelerator, bringing together scientists, data specialists, and engineers from different disciplines to move innovations forward with speech and precision.
This structure enables Xeriant to:
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Validate technologies early in the development cycle.
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Pressure-test assumptions before scaling.
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Reduce risk before committing capital.
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Identify opportunities with true disruptive potential.
According to Duffy, today’s complex challenges require multidisciplinary solutions. Factor X is designed to move fast, without the bureaucratic drag often associated with large defense and aerospace contractors.
Leadership with Strategic Foresight
To lead this effort, Xeriant appointed Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Blaine D. Holt as President of Factor X. Duffy describes this selection as an easy one. Holt brings decades of leadership experience spanning the U.S. Air Force, NATO and private-sector turnarounds.
Importantly, Holt was the architect of the Factor X model itself, proposing the collaborative ecosystem more than a year ago. His national security background informs the division’s strategic priorities, particularly the convergence of AI, data, and cryptography, a foundation for secure, high-performance systems across defense, infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.
Validating the Concept with NEXBOARD
Xeriant is already proving this model works. NEXBOARD™, the company’s flagship eco-friendly wallboard, blends recycled materials, advanced chemistry, and aerospace-grade engineering to deliver a superior alternative to traditional drywall.
This product exists because experts from multiple domains were brought together early in the process. Through Factor X, those evaluations happen immediately, ensuring the most efficient path from concept to commercialization. The company is now focused on scaling manufacturing to meet growing demand from commercial and residential construction leaders.
Prioritizing Speed and Value
Factor X applies a disciplined framework to evaluate new technologies, prioritizing projects based on four criteria:
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Market size
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Competitive advantage
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Speed to revenue
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Capital requirements
Sustainable construction materials and nanocoatings currently lead the pipeline, meeting all four benchmarks while addressing urgent, real-world market needs.
Duffy emphasizes discipline and focus over volume. The goal is not to chase every idea, but to execute strategically, successfully commercializing each initiative before scaling the next. Additional programs are expected to be announced in early 2026, reflecting the depth of the pipeline.
Building a Technology Holding Company
This strategic pivot positions Xeriant as more than a traditional tech firm. The company is building a technology holding company powered by a centralized collaboration hub.
Duffy points to pioneering organizations such as SpaceX and Anduril as cultural touchstones, defined by curiosity, agility, and disciplined execution. With Factor X at its core, Xeriant aims to stay ahead of shifting market demands and deliver solutions before the market even knows to ask for them.
