Investing in National Security: VCs Funding the Future of Defense

The national security investment landscape has never been more dynamic. From autonomous systems and space to cybersecurity and AI-enabled command and control, venture capital and corporate investors are reshaping what it means to defend the nation at the speed of innovation. Moderated by Steve Blank, this session brought together four leading voices at the intersection of capital and national security: Chris Moran, Managing Director of Lockheed Martin Ventures; Joe Addiego, Partner at Brave Capital and former Partner at In-Q-Tel; Larsen Jensen, Co-Founder of Harpoon Ventures; and AJ Bertone, Partner at In-Q-Tel. Together, they represent the full spectrum of defense investment — from the strategic venture arm of one of America’s largest prime contractors to traditional venture funds and the intelligence community’s own venture arm. The conversation explored how investors identify and back technologies with national security potential, how founders can navigate the unique demands of government customers and defense procurement, and what the next wave of critical capability gaps means for investors’ theses. —— This session is part of the “Silicon Valley & The U.S. Government” speaker series. Silicon Valley collaborations with the U.S. government have led to some of the most important technologies in our society. Driven by visionary leaders, these collaborations have overcome regulatory, business, and technological challenges to achieve exceptional innovation. The results of these innovations have addressed national issues and societal challenges. As government and industry collaboration is more important than ever to accelerate private sector innovation and shape the future of technology, join us in hearing the personal accounts of technology experts, business executives, and public service leaders who have paved the way.