Overview
NATO Innovation Fund (NIF) is a standalone venture capital fund established to support deep technology innovation with strategic relevance to defence, security and resilience. Backed by 24 NATO Allied nations, it deploys over €1 billion in capital to invest in cutting-edge science and engineering startups and venture funds. NIF was created to help bridge the gap between emerging technology development and real-world implementation across Allied nations.
Mission and focus areas
NIF’s primary objective is to strengthen the defence, security and resilience of NATO Allied countries by financing early to mid-stage deep tech companies and complementary venture funds. Investments target advanced technology sectors such as artificial intelligence, autonomy, space, novel materials, energy, data and computing, and other breakthrough domains essential for future security and operational capabilities. NIF seeks to catalyse innovation ecosystems in regions where capital has historically been limited, enabling technologies with dual-use commercial and strategic value to flourish. While not exclusively focussed on sustainability, NIF’s portfolio sometimes intersects with broader resilience goals, including energy transition and infrastructure protection.
Structure and governance
NIF operates independently from NATO, although it maintains a unique relationship with the Alliance and aligns with its strategic priorities. Its governance framework includes a Board of Directors drawn from senior figures in venture capital, innovation and defence, as well as a dedicated investment team. The fund collaborates closely with Allied governments and industry partners to support portfolio companies’ scaling and market access. Leadership appointments and advisory groups reflect a blend of investment, technological and policy expertise.
Programs and offerings
NIF provides direct equity investments in startups and indirect investments via venture funds that share its focus on deep tech. Its offerings span financial capital, strategic support and access to government and industry markets, designed to accelerate commercialisation and adoption. The fund publishes news and insights related to its activities and trends in emerging technology, and showcases its portfolio companies publicly. Overall, NIF’s outputs are investment-driven rather than research or education-oriented, making it a distinctive player in the deep tech and defence innovation ecosystem.
