With our event series „Collaboration-defined Resilience“, we explore which forms of collaboration are needed to close critical capability gaps in defense and resilience in times of geopolitical stress. Bringing together public sector leaders, industry platforms, technology companies, investors, financial institutions, startups and international partners, we focus on how innovation, regulation and operational requirements can be aligned to strengthen resilience across strategic domains.
Following the strong resonance of our first session, „Platforms & Funds“, the second session, „Startups 2.0“, focuses on high-impact startups and key institutional enablers to highlight practical pathways and successful models of collaboration.
The first session, „Platforms & Funds“, revealed two structural frictions in the European defense innovation ecosystem:
1. Capital is available – but not yet effectively mobilized: While private investors/LPs are ready to deploy capital, many funds remain in a holding pattern due to delayed commitments from public anchor investors — slowing fund closings and, consequently, startup financing.
2. Technology alone does not translate into capability: Even highly innovative startup teams often lack a precise understanding of operational military demand, procurement pathways, and the organizational and company-building capabilities required to succeed in a defense environment.
The second session, „Startups 2.0“, is designed as a closed-door, high-level exchange to address these gaps directly. The discussion will focus on how startups can navigate procurement pathways, align with real operational needs, and scale DeepTech innovation within Europe’s rapidly evolving defense market.
The second session, „Startups 2.0“, will take place on 9 July 2026 at 6:00 p.m., set against the backdrop of the Berlin evening skyline.
Participation is limited. Interested participants are invited to submit a registration request; attendance will be confirmed individually.
We look forward to welcoming you for outstanding perspectives, practical insights, and a network-driven dialogue on Collaboration-defined Resilience.