Défense Angels

Défense Angels stands as the pioneering business angel network exclusively focused on financing emerging companies with strategic importance. Established to bridge the critical funding gap for startups operating in defense, security, and dual-use technology sectors, this investor collective brings together high-net-worth individuals with military, intelligence, and defense industry backgrounds. Their unique value proposition lies in combining capital investment with specialized domain expertise that helps portfolio companies navigate complex regulatory environments and secure government contracts.

The network typically invests in early-stage ventures developing technologies with applications in cybersecurity, intelligence systems, advanced materials, autonomous systems, and critical infrastructure protection. Investment tickets generally range from €100,000 to €500,000, with members often participating in syndicated deals alongside institutional investors and government-backed innovation funds. Défense Angels prioritizes startups with dual-use technologies that demonstrate potential for both defense applications and commercial markets, maximizing potential return profiles while supporting national security interests.

Beyond financial backing, portfolio companies gain access to the network's extensive connections within defense ministries, military procurement offices, intelligence agencies, and prime contractors across Europe and NATO countries. This strategic advantage significantly accelerates business development cycles that typically prove challenging for young companies in these regulated markets. The investor group also provides mentorship from former military leaders, defense executives, and security experts who help founders refine their value propositions for government and enterprise clients.

Since its inception, Défense Angels has built a reputation for identifying promising technologies before they appear on the radar of larger venture capital firms. Their portfolio includes companies developing breakthrough solutions in quantum encryption, AI-powered threat detection, and advanced sensor systems that have secured significant defense contracts. The network maintains a deliberate focus on European sovereignty and resilience, supporting technologies that reduce strategic dependencies while maintaining strict compliance with export control regulations and security clearance requirements for sensitive technologies.