How DoD startups are innovating for security

The growing demand for defense-tech innovation is outpacing the availability of skilled professionals. Hacking for Defense® (H4D) is bridging this gap by providing university students with hands-on experience solving defense-related problems, while also preparing them for careers in both government and the private sector. The program is rapidly expanding across NATO countries, fostering partnerships and innovation in dual-use technologies that benefit both national security and commercial industries. In this blog post, CEOs of BMNT and BMNT, Ltd., Peter Newell and Ali Hawks, Ph.D. reveal how H4D is shaping the future of defense technology and fostering a new generation of innovators committed to national security and global collaboration. #H4D is more than a course; it's a movement shaping the future of defense technology. #DefenseTech #Innovation #DualUseTech #NationalSecurity #HackingForDefense #MissionDrivenEntrepreneurship #TechTalent #Startups #DefenseInnovation #NATO

The recently closed AFWERX Open Topic cycle offered an exciting opportunity for innovators to collaborate with the #AirForce and tackle critical challenges. However, small businesses must recognize the competitive nature of this process and understand the importance of a robust funding strategy. #Startups and small businesses were invited to submit proposals aimed at enhancing the Air Force's capabilities in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, space operations, advanced materials, and human performance. Discussions indicate that the likelihood of being selected is around 1%, based on the volume of submissions and historical selection averages. Therefore, it is crucial for startups to develop a comprehensive #fundingstrategy that includes multiple opportunities to increase their chances of advancing their technology and capabilities. By diversifying their approach and exploring various funding avenues, small businesses can better position themselves for success in future AFWERX cycles and other #innovation programs.

🚀 Defense Tech is Booming: Fueling Innovation and Security! 🚀 The defense tech sector is on fire 🔥 with over $129.3 billion in venture capital investments since 2021! From AI-driven intelligence platforms to autonomous defense systems and cybersecurity solutions, the future of defense is all about innovation and cutting-edge technology. 🛡️✨ One key figure pushing this revolution forward is Shyam Sankar, Palantir's CTO, who’s been instrumental in supporting defense tech startups in Silicon Valley. Under his mentorship, startups are securing major contracts, developing next-gen tech, and shaping the future of global security. 🌍 With countries like the U.S., Israel, the UK, and Australia ramping up investments in defense tech, the industry is not just growing—it's redefining how we approach national and global security. https://lnkd.in/g36D-6yZ 💡 The impact of these innovations goes far beyond the battlefield. They are reshaping industries, creating economic opportunities, and opening doors for venture capitalists eager to invest in dual-use technologies that have both military and civilian applications. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 🚀 $129.3 billion invested in defense tech since 2021. 🛠️ AI, autonomous systems, and cybersecurity are at the forefront of innovation. 🌍 Global impact as countries race to secure their positions in defense tech. 💼 Exciting opportunities for startups, investors, and defense companies alike. The future of defense is here—driven by tech, fueled by innovation, and led by visionary leaders like Sankar. Let's continue to support this incredible momentum! 💪 #DefenseTech #AI #CyberSecurity #AutonomousSystems #VentureCapital #Innovation #GlobalSecurity #Leadership #Palantir #Startups #FutureTech

Deadlines for multiple opportunities are fast approaching! 🌊 NSIN Propel Hawaii | Startup Accelerator | Closes tomorrow, 6/21 Early-stage ventures with technologies to address modernization requirements of PACAF will explore dual-use markets. Selected companies will build a foundation to do business with the DoD. Apply now: https://lnkd.in/ecDvURMt 💻 NSIN Cyber Innovators Challenge | Prize Challenge | Closes tomorrow, 6/21 Identify cutting-edge solutions to address critical cyber threats and challenges faced by the DoD to win part of a $1 million prize pool. Submit solutions: https://lnkd.in/epfZHxXV 🤝 NSIN Foundry | Startup Studio | Closes 7/1 Entrepreneurs will be matched into teams and work with DoD inventors to assess the market viability and the potential to commercialize cutting-edge DoD technologies. Teams will compete for $50,000 in prizes and may form companies and license the technologies. Apply now: https://bit.ly/3JVEQja

🚀 Why Mentorship is Crucial for Early-Stage Defence Startups 🛡️ Starting a defence tech company? The road to success is challenging, with complex regulations, funding hurdles, and the need for advanced technologies. There is one powerful tool that can help overcome these obstacles: mentorship. 😊 Swipe through to learn how mentorship can: 1️⃣ Guide startups through regulatory hurdles and compliance standards. 2️⃣ Help secure funding and investment, connecting you with the right stakeholders. 3️⃣ Build valuable government relationships and navigate procurement processes. 4️⃣ Support innovation in advanced technologies like AI, drones, and cybersecurity. 5️⃣ Scale your business and craft effective commercialization strategies. 6️⃣ Provide risk management insights to protect your startup in high-risk sectors. 7️⃣ Open doors to key networking and partnership opportunities. Mentorship isn’t just about advice—it’s about connections, strategy, and building the defence solutions of tomorrow. 👉 Let’s empower the next generation of defense innovators. Together, we can create a resilient and self-reliant defense ecosystem. 🌐 #DefenceStartups #Mentorship #Innovation #DefenceTech #AI #CyberSecurity #Drones #Entrepreneurship #TechForDefence

Modern factories face a critical security challenge: the more digital they become, the more vulnerable they are to cyber-attacks. Our SIBB Incubator team DTSecLabs, founded by Diana Patricia Aya Calderón and Deepa Belavi, brings a practical approach to industrial security. Using digital twin technology, they test and strengthen factory systems without interrupting production. Key features: ✅ No need to stop production for testing ✅ Spots problems before they happen ✅ Works with whatever systems factories already use ✅ Expert security guidance at every step With backgrounds in manufacturing and cybersecurity, Diana and Deepa understand the high stakes of factory operations - where security testing can't mean stopping production. 🔧 Want to see how they keep industrial systems safe? Connect with DTSecLabs on LinkedIn or visit their website. #IndustrialSecurity #Manufacturing #BerlinStartups #SIBBIncubator

National interest technology can show up in a lot of ways, like in data analysis and cybersecurity, as well as satellites and weapons. Many startups with dual-use applications are increasingly looking at the government as an attractive customer due to its wide range of use cases and the amount of federal dollars available.  https://lnkd.in/gsPan77p #nationalinterest #startups #dualuse #applications #technology #looking #government #contracts #funding #investments #dataanalysis #satellites #cybersecurity #weapons

Analyzing Opportunities for Defense Startups Amid $1.3 Billion Pentagon Innovation Funding The U.S. House of Representatives has proposed allocating $1.3 billion for Pentagon innovation, presenting significant opportunities for defense startups. Here’s an analysis of the potential benefits and strategic moves for emerging tech companies in the defense sector. Key Opportunities: 1. Increased Funding for Innovation: - Defense Innovation Unit (DIU): With more than $500 million earmarked for DIU initiatives, startups have a substantial opportunity to secure funding for developing cutting-edge technologies that meet urgent military needs. - APFIT Program: An additional $400 million is proposed to fast-track technology from small businesses to military users, offering a pathway for startups to quickly transition from development to deployment. 2. Access to Classified Facilities: - The expansion of access to classified facilities for non-traditional companies means that defense startups can now work more closely with the Pentagon, allowing for better integration and faster implementation of innovative solutions. 3. Support for Rapid Prototyping: - Initiatives like the DIU's involvement in projects such as Replicator, which aims to deploy thousands of drones rapidly, highlight the Pentagon’s focus on quick delivery of capabilities. Startups specializing in rapid prototyping and deployment will find ample opportunities. Strategic Moves for Startups: 1. Leverage Government Funding: - Utilize the increased funding from programs like DIU and APFIT to advance R&D efforts and scale operations. Startups should actively seek these funds to bring their innovations to market faster. 2. Enhance Collaboration: - Forge partnerships with established defense contractors and other startups to enhance capabilities and increase chances of securing government contracts. Collaboration can also provide access to valuable resources and expertise. 3. Focus on High-Need Areas: - Concentrate on developing technologies that address high-need operational problems identified by the Pentagon. Areas such as autonomous systems, cyber defense, and advanced communications are likely to receive significant attention and funding. Conclusion: The proposed $1.3 billion for Pentagon innovation signifies a major boost for defense startups. By leveraging this funding and focusing on rapid prototyping and deployment, startups can play a crucial role in enhancing U.S. military capabilities. https://lnkd.in/ggZmtskc #DefenseStartups #PentagonInnovation #MilitaryTech #FundingOpportunities #DIU #APFIT #TechInnovation #DefenseIndustry #StrategicPartnerships

We’re thrilled to announce that Cyberdes has been recognized as a regional winner in the UK Tech Pathfinder Awards! We are taking bold steps towards revolutionising AI technology with our cutting-edge solutions: Neutrino, our MLOps/LLMOps Platform; Positron, our AI Security Solution; and Cassandra, our AI Accelerator. Neutrino empowers businesses to streamline and scale their AI models effortlessly, turning complex LLM/Deep Learning operations into manageable workflows. Positron provides a robust security solution to safeguard AI models and infrastructures from emerging threats, while our AI Accelerator brings unparalleled speed and efficiency to AI processing with our proprietary Neural Processing Unit. These innovations are designed to help organizations harness the power of AI securely and efficiently, driving real business impact. A huge thank you to Kenan Poleo, Ahenk Dereli, our partners and Team CYBERDES Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey to make AI accessible and secure for all. #Cyberdes #AIInnovation #AIAccelerator #MLOps #LLMOPs #ArtificialIntelligence #TechAwards #PathfinderAwards