Funding Access

Introduction: Fueling the Growth of Defence Innovation

Welcome to Defence Ukraine's Funding Access program. We recognize that securing the right investment is crucial for transforming promising dual-use and defence technologies from successful pilots into widely deployed solutions. This program is dedicated to connecting innovators – startups, scale-ups, and R&D teams with market-ready solutions – to a curated network of aligned investors and grant providers specifically interested in scalable dual-use technology relevant to Ukraine's needs.

Our core mission is to help you secure the funding necessary to bridge the critical gap between pilot validation and full-scale deployment, ensuring vital technologies reach those who need them most.

The Challenge: Bridging the "Valley of Death" in Defence Tech

Many groundbreaking dual-use technologies demonstrate significant potential in pilot programs but face a formidable challenge in securing the necessary capital to scale up production, complete final development stages, and achieve widespread deployment. This funding gap, often called the "valley of death," can stall or halt even the most promising innovations. Accessing investors and grantors who understand the specific nuances and timelines of the defence and dual-use sector can be particularly difficult.

The Solution: Defence Ukraine's Funding Access Program

Our Funding Access program is designed to overcome these hurdles by:

• Curated Network: Providing access to a network of venture capitalists, private equity firms, impact investors, government grant programs, and international funds that have a specific focus on or interest in scalable dual-use technologies and Ukraine's defence sector.
• Strategic Matchmaking: We work to connect you with "aligned" funding sources – those whose investment thesis, risk appetite, and strategic interests match your technology, stage, and goals.
• Facilitating Connections: We don't just provide a list; we aim to facilitate meaningful introductions and dialogues.

Who is This Program For?

The Funding Access program is tailored for:

• Startups & Scale-ups: Companies with proven dual-use or defence technologies that have successfully completed pilot testing (potentially through programs like our Tech Pilot or similar validation) and are ready to scale.
• Innovators Seeking Growth Capital: Entities needing investment to expand production, enter the Ukrainian market or other markets, finalize product development for deployment, or build out their teams.
• Ventures with Scalable Dual-Use Technologies: We focus on technologies that have clear scalability and potential for significant impact in both civilian and defence applications.

Our Support Services:

Defence Ukraine’s Funding Access program can offer support through:

• Investment Readiness Assessment: Helping you evaluate your preparedness for engaging with investors and identifying areas for improvement.
• Pitch Deck & Proposal Refinement: Guidance on crafting compelling investment proposals and pitch materials tailored to defence and dual-use tech investors.
• Investor & Grant Provider Matchmaking: Identifying and connecting you with suitable funding sources from our curated network based on your specific needs and technology.
• Facilitated Introductions & Pitch Sessions: Organizing opportunities to present your technology and business case to potential investors and grant providers.
• Guidance on Grant Application Processes: Providing insights and support for navigating relevant grant application procedures.
• Understanding Investor Expectations: Helping you understand the due diligence process and expectations of investors in this specialized sector.

Key Outcomes for Participants:

Engaging with our Funding Access program can help you achieve:

• Funding for Pilot-to-Deployment Bridge: Secure the critical capital needed to transition your validated technology into full production and deployment.
• Connections with Strategic Investors & Grantors: Gain access to funding partners who understand the dual-use landscape and are committed to supporting impactful technologies.
• Accelerated Scaling & Market Entry: Utilise investment to expand your operations, enhance production capabilities, and bring your solutions to market more rapidly.
• Increased Deployment and Impact: Ensure your innovative technologies reach end-users effectively, contributing to real-world solutions.
• Strategic Partnerships: Potential for more than just funding – access to expertise, networks, and strategic guidance from your investors.

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