A veteran leads
At least one military veteran sits on the leadership team. We care how that experience shapes the way the company is run.
For veteran-led startups
Are you building something that could be huge?
We look for disruptive startups led by people who served, with the potential to grow many times over and return real value to our investors. Here is exactly how we decide.
What we weigh
Four things we check first.
If your company fits all four, apply. If it is close, apply anyway and tell us what is different. A person reads every application.
It is built and used
The product exists and customers are already using or paying for it. Early traction counts for more than a forecast.
Where it matters
Critical technologies, dual-use products and B2B software. These are the markets where we can open the right doors.
Seed, with a runway
Seed stage, with valuations or caps in the range of about $5M to $25M, and a clear line of sight to your next round of financing.
Above all, fit. We put leadership alignment first, then ask whether our network, business expertise and resources would help your company in a way money alone would not.
Plain-language terms
Words founders ask about.
- Dual-use
- Technology that serves both commercial customers and defense or government buyers.
- Valuation cap
- The highest company valuation at which an early investor’s note converts into shares.
- Line of sight
- A believable plan, with evidence, for how and when you will raise your next round.
- Critical technology
- Fields seen as vital to national security and economic strength, such as AI, space, autonomy and cyber.
After you apply
From form to funded.
- 1
Apply
Send the short form. Tell us about the team, the product and the traction.
- 2
Intro call
Thirty minutes with a partner to talk through the business.
- 3
Review
We dig into the product, customers and team, and speak to references.
- 4
Decision
A clear answer with reasons, from a person.
- 5
Funded
Capital in, then introductions and operating help.
Ready to apply?
You meet the criteria above and have a product in customers’ hands.
Apply for fundingStill an idea?
You served, you have a startup idea, and you want help shaping it before you raise.
Apply to the acceleratorNot veteran-led?
We fund businesses of every kind. Tell us about yours on the funding form.
Apply for fundingVenture investing carries risk, and past results do not predict future ones. Nothing on this page is an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy securities.