This week in the D.C. area, the Strength Through Innovation Summit hosted by IronGate Capital Advisors has brought together some of the brightest minds in the defense, technology, and national security sectors. Over the course of two days, September 25-26, 2024, leaders from the military, venture capital, and private technology companies are gathering to discuss the most pressing challenges and opportunities shaping the future of defense innovation.

Day One Highlights: Technology, National Security, and Cognitive Warfare

The summit kicked off with a powerful keynote delivered by Lt. Gen. John D. Caine, a former Director of Special Programs at the Department of Defense and Central Intelligence Agency. The keynote, "Technology Challenges and Opportunities," laid the foundation for the day's discussions, focusing on how rapid advancements in AI, quantum computing, and cybersecurity are creating both opportunities and vulnerabilities in national defense. Hon. Tidal McCoy, Chairman of IronGate Capital Advisors, opened the day, emphasizing the crucial intersection of venture capital and defense innovation.

Exploring the State of National Security Venture Capital

One of the standout sessions of the morning was the panel discussion on the State of the National Security Venture Capital Market. Led by Andrew Magliocchetti, Managing Partner at IronGate Capital Advisors, the discussion included insights from prominent venture capital figures like Stephanie Bellistri of New North Ventures and Jonathan Bronson from J2 Ventures. The panel underscored the growing role of venture capital in accelerating defense technologies, from cybersecurity to autonomous systems.

Cognitive Warfare: The New Battlefield

At 1:00 PM, a deeply engaging panel on Influence Operations and Cognitive Warfare was moderated by Jonathan Loewof BIG Media. The session featured speakers such as RDML Michael Hewitt, a retired U.S. Navy officer and Joshua Segal, Co-Founder of Def9 Solutions. The discussion focused on how cognitive warfare—shaping perceptions and manipulating information—is becoming a central concern in modern conflict. As technological tools evolve, so do the methods for influencing populations and eroding the decision-making capacity of adversaries.

Fireside Chats and the Future of AI in Defense

In the afternoon, the focus turned toward the future of artificial intelligence and its role in national security. A panel titled The Future of AI and National Security featured leading voices like Andrew Black, Founder of AI Stealth Co., and Igor Jablokov, CEO of Pryon, discussing the profound implications of AI in battlefield decision-making, cybersecurity, and predictive analytics. This was followed by a fireside chat on Technology in Modern Warfare, highlighting the role of advanced defense technologies in reshaping traditional combat strategies.

Building the Future Through Innovation

Throughout the day, a common theme resonated: innovation, driven by both public and private sectors, is at the heart of maintaining a competitive edge in global defense. The intersection of venture capital and military expertise creates a fertile ground for developing new technologies that not only enhance national security but also transform the broader tech landscape.

The summit's first day closed with remarks highlighting the continued importance of collaboration between defense leaders, venture capitalists, and technologists in navigating the complex landscape of modern warfare. The day concluded with a cocktail reception, hosted by New North Ventures, where attendees had the chance to network and discuss the day's key takeaways in a more informal setting.

Looking Ahead: Day Two Preview

As we move into the second day of the Strength Through Innovation Summit, attendees can expect even more thought-provoking discussions on the future of military technology, venture capital strategies, and the evolving role of AI and quantum computing in defense. With another packed agenda, the summit continues to be a vital platform for those at the forefront of defense innovation.

Day 2

Iron Gate Summit: Highlights from Thursday, September 26

Today at the Iron Gate Strength Through Innovation Summit, we witnessed exciting insights from top innovators and leaders in the defense and technology sectors. The sessions focused on cutting-edge advancements in defense technology, corporate venture capital perspectives, space security, and the importance of international partnerships.

Lightning Presentations: Group II

We kicked off the afternoon with rapid-fire presentations from some of the most innovative technology companies. Presenters included:

• Ryan Hatcher, CEO, Phoenix Semiconductors
• Joe Saunders, CEO, Runsafe Security
• Ali Najafian, CEO, Infomatics
• Clay Kroschel, CEO, Delta Black
• Sergey Kulyagin, CFO, Corporate Strategy and IR, JetZero

Each speaker shared groundbreaking technologies poised to impact national security and defense innovation.

Panel Discussion: Corporate Venture Capital Perspective

Whitney McNamara, Vice President of Beacon Global Strategies, moderated this insightful panel with Jared Evans, Deputy CIO of the Office of Strategic Capital at the U.S. Department of Defense. The discussion revolved around how corporate venture capital can fuel defense innovations and foster stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors.

Space and National Security

The conversation shifted to space with a powerful panel led by Jim Frelk from the NSSA Moorman Center. The panel featured industry giants such as:

• Rob Long, CEO & President, Space Florida
• Doug Loverro, CEO & President, Space Florida
• Chris Williams, Chair, NSSA Moorman Center
• Kerry Wisnosky, CEO, Quantum Space

The panel explored how space is becoming an increasingly important frontier for national security, discussing both opportunities and risks.

International Partnerships Panel

In the last major session of the day, Karyn Eliot of Five Eyes Group moderated a panel on international partnerships. Speakers included defense and intelligence experts:

• Glenn Cowan, ONE9
• Michelle Mosey, Valkyrie Cyber
• Henrik Fogh Rasmussen, Valgard Ventures
• Ged Wilkinson, UK National Security Strategic Investment Fund

They shared how collaborations between nations and private entities are critical to strengthening global defense strategies in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Cocktail Reception and Networking

The day concluded with a cocktail reception, offering live music and an excellent opportunity for attendees to network, reflect on the day’s insights, and discuss potential collaborations.

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