Dual-Use Technologies from Lab to Market: VC Insights for Deep Tech Startups. A chat with Sherman Williams, Managing Partner, and Forrest Underwood, Venture Partner, at AIN Ventures

Host: Nicola Marchese Guest: Sherman Williams, Managing Partner at AIN Ventures Guest: Forrest Underwood, Venture Partner, at AIN Ventures #DeepTechCatalyst Watch the ⁠⁠⁠full video on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠platform⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!⁠ KEY TAKEAWAYS: 1. In the U.S. and other Western nations, government entities are key investors in advanced technologies, primarily funding through grants, tax incentives, and subsidies; early-stage scientists must develop strong grant-writing skills to secure this support. 2. The DIME framework (Diplomatic, Information, Military, and Economic) helps map dual-use tech’s commercial potential, with the Economic sector presenting the largest opportunity for companies to transition from government to broader market applications. 3. Government and commercial customers seek solutions, not just technology; founders must understand varied government needs—from end users to procurement and requirements branches—to develop products that align with specific mission goals. 4. VCs look for a capable team, substantial market potential, a viable go-to-market strategy, and unique technological differentiation—essential elements that indicate a startup’s readiness for both government and commercial markets. 5. For scalable growth, founders should prioritize building, testing, and iterating while considering partnerships with prime contractors, who can play a critical role in helping startups sell to the Department of Defense. MORE ABOUT THE SCENARIONIST: - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Discover all the episodes, trends analysis, and more.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stay in the loop with our latest news.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Let’s connect.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ #dualuse #defense #startup #startups #innovation #manufacturing #vcs #venturecapital #techtransfer #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science #lab Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.