Defense technology has become a hot topic for venture capitalists and entrepreneurs, with $135 billion invested in the past five years compared to $40 billion in the previous five years. The Defense Ventures Program by Shift embedded Department of Defense members in venture capital firms and startups, revitalizing the defense technology movement. Shift’s influence led to investments from prestigious firms like A16z and successful startups like True Anomaly and Apollo. However, despite praise and recognition, the program was not renewed, causing a loss of trust between the Department of Defense and the private sector. The failure highlights the challenges of transitioning programs and maintaining industry relationships.
https://warontherocks.com/2024/03/american-military-civil-fusion-at-risk-with-the-loss-of-the-shift-fellowship/