This week, we dive into the exciting world of defense tech with Jake Chapman from Marque Ventures. Jake shares his journey into VC, why Marque Ventures was born, and how shifts in geopolitics and advancements in AI, cybersecurity, and autonomous tech are driving VC interest in defense tech.
He opens up about the hurdles of long development cycles, regulatory landscapes, and ethical dilemmas while offering insights into DoD procurement strategies, the importance of a defense-first approach, and the power of public engagement for raising sector awareness.
Wrapping up, Jake touches on the significance of strategic partnerships and the evolving M&A scene, highlighting a future with a broader range of buyers in the defense tech space.
About Jake Chapman:
Jake Chapman is managing director at Marque Ventures, an early-stage VC firm focused on defense and dual-use technologies. He has played pivotal roles in various companies, leveraging technology to enhance national security. Jake focuses his investments on sectors like AI, robotics, aerospace, and quantum computing.
In addition to investing, Jake is a co-host of "The Merge," a podcast making defense technology accessible and engaging. He also is a writer, where he shares insights on technology's future and venture capital, contributing to major publications like TechCrunch and WIRED.
Jake has a BS and JD from the University of California, Berkeley.
In this episode, we discuss:
(01:16) Jake's transition from law to venture capital was sparked by his passion for sci-fi and a desire to be closer to technology and entrepreneurship
(02:07) Launching Marque Ventures, Jake aimed to bridge the gap between startups and the complexities of DOD procurement, drawing on his rich background in tech and legal expertise
(03:05) His endeavor to reform Army Venture Capital led to the creation of Marque Ventures, targeting the underexplored niches of defense technology
(06:23) Why the geopolitical climate and innovation in AI, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems for the increased interest in defense tech from generalist VCs
(11:59) The unique challenges of DOD procurement, and why startups should align their solutions with DOD needs from the outset
(17:12) The importance of securing sufficient funding and understanding the long-term commitment required
(20:23) Why Marque Ventures focuses on filling the Series A funding gap in defense tech
(22:00) Discussing portfolio synergies, Jake mentions GoTenna's mesh networking as a prime example of integrating technologies for enhanced defense capabilities
(23:23) Jake reflects on the changing dynamics of military engagement, stressing the need for cost-effective solutions in contemporary conflicts
(25:06) The flaw in cost-plus contracting model, advocating for a shift towards more economically viable defense procurement strategies
(28:48) The need for innovation in defense manufacturing, Jake envisions a TSMC-like platform to support the scalability of defense tech startups
(35:38) The concept of 'dual use' in defense tech, citing SpaceX as an exemplary model for successfully navigating and scaling in this sector
(37:13) The global defense market's potential, encouraging startups to look beyond the US for opportunities
(40:44) What its like to co-host his own podcast, The Merge
Fast Favorites:
🎙- Favorite Podcast: The Pitch
📰- Favorite Newsletter / Blog: The Merge Newsletter, Defense Tech and Acquisition
📈- Favorite New Trend: Generative AI
📚- Favorite Book: Tuxedo Park
🤔 - Favorite Life Lesson: You don't get what you don't ask for.
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Venture Frontiers: Navigating the New Dynamics of Defense Tech Investing with Jake Chapman of Marque Ventures