Morgan Geospatial charts a new course

Brian Morgan’s journey to build a next-generation drone aircraft didn’t start in a lab or startup incubator. It began nearly 40 years ago when he sketched out an idea in aeronautical school that he couldn’t stop thinking about.

Now, nearly four decades later, the Oconomowoc-based founder of Morgan Geospatial is closing in on the most advanced iteration of that original vision: a VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) aircraft that combines helicopter-like lift with airplane-like speed, range, and efficiency.

“This aircraft can take off and land in a parking lot, but fly like a jet,” Morgan said. “It’s designed for real-world missions—search and rescue, police tracking, border patrol—that require speed, agility, and endurance all in one vehicle.”

Morgan was one of a small number of innovators selected for the Spring 2025 cohort of the Oregon UAS Accelerator, hosted at the Pendleton UAS Test Range. He spent several weeks training with flight control systems, testing prototypes, and pitching to investors. At the end of the program, Morgan Geospatial received a $40,000 non-dilutive grant to continue development.

Though the company name may be new to some, Morgan’s work is anything but. In 2005, he co-founded an earlier aircraft development firm that folded after the financial crisis and investor disagreements. He returned to Wisconsin in 2017, reformed under the Morgan Geospatial name, and began the slow process of rebuilding—this time on his own terms.

What sets Morgan’s design apart is its hybrid structure. Unlike tilt-rotors or multicopters, his aircraft separates vertical lift and forward thrust, allowing it to hover in tight spaces or fly hundreds of miles at high speed. The current prototype is fully electric and has been tested for use in law enforcement scenarios—including high-speed vehicle tracking that could reduce the need for dangerous car chases.

“It’s fast, quiet, and can stay in the air for hours. The cost to operate it for 40 minutes is about $150—including labor—compared to thousands for a traditional police helicopter,” said Morgan. “And if something goes wrong midair, it can glide to safety. That’s a huge advantage over most drones today.”

While the long-term goal is to build a passenger-sized VTOL aircraft, Morgan is starting with two drone-scale versions he aims to bring to market within 18 months. He’s currently seeking $3.5 million in funding to establish a facility, hire a small team, and begin production.

“I’ve been courted by other states, but I want to build this here,” said Morgan. “The supply chain, the infrastructure, even the weather—it makes sense to prove this can work in the Midwest.”

Family ties also play a role. With his children and grandchildren nearby, staying in Oconomowoc allows Morgan to keep the business rooted in a place that matters personally and practically.

Morgan Geospatial has already demonstrated flight capabilities, received attention from defense contractors, and built prototypes capable of autonomous missions like mapping, surveillance, and rescue. What comes next depends on funding—and finding the right partners who share the vision.

“I’ve been at this a long time,” said Morgan. “But the vision hasn’t changed. I still believe this aircraft can make a real difference in the world.”

To learn more about Morgan Geospatial, connect with the company here.