Intellectual Property for Emerging Technologies, Fundings: L3Harris Airline Academy, Air Company, Osium AI
29 November 2023 - A Weekly Publication by New North Ventures
In light of recent developments surrounding the Pentagon's strategic incorporation of commercial space technology into defense initiatives, we invite you to delve into the nuanced intersection of law and innovation by revisiting one of our earlier Securing Our Future podcast episodes: "Intellectual Property for Emerging Technologies with Eric Blatt."
In this insightful conversation, Jeremy Hitchcock engages with Eric Blatt to navigate the intricate legal and policy challenges posed by emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain. Explore the multifaceted landscape where innovation meets regulation as we discuss the pivotal role of intellectual property law in both protecting and fostering advancements within these cutting-edge realms.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate balance between legal frameworks and technological progress. As the landscape of defense programs evolves, this episode serves as a valuable resource for professionals, policymakers, and enthusiasts alike. Listen now on Spotify or wherever you stream your podcasts:
Inside U.S. Efforts to Untangle an A.I. Giant’s Ties to China
G42 is an artificial intelligence company controlled by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, the national security adviser of the United Arab Emirates.
The company has announced a number of high-profile partnerships, including with Microsoft, Dell Technologies, and OpenAI.
U.S. officials have raised concerns about G42’s work with Chinese companies, including Huawei and BGI Genomics.
The Biden administration has warned that G42 could be a conduit for advanced American technology to be siphoned to Chinese companies or the government.
The Emirati government has said that G42 is a “private company” and that it “does not engage in any activities that are contrary to U.S. national security interests.”
The Real Story of the OpenAI Debacle Is the Tyranny of Big Tech
OpenAI has been making headlines lately after the ousting of its CEO Sam Altman and the subsequent turmoil surrounding the company.
Microsoft has been a key player in this drama, both as an investor in OpenAI and as a potential beneficiary of the company's technology.
The events at OpenAI highlight the power that tech giants like Microsoft have over the AI industry and the potential risks associated with this concentration of power.
Policymakers should be concerned about the implications of this power imbalance and take steps to ensure that AI development is done responsibly and in the public interest.
Pentagon Looks to Commercial Space for an Edge
The Pentagon is developing a new strategy to integrate commercial space technology into its defense programs.
The strategy is being driven by the need to maintain an advantage over China, which is seen as America's top military competitor. The aim is to leverage the rapid innovation and technology refresh rates of the commercial sector.
The Pentagon is also working to establish a commercial space reserve to ensure access to commercial satellites during conflicts.
Their goal is to incentivize companies to participate in the program by giving them access to wargames and large contracts for services.
Founded: 1929
Key People: President Alan Crawford
Elevator Pitch: Pilot training services intended to train commercial and military pilots.
Funding: The company entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by The Jordan Company through a $800 million LBO on November 27, 2023.
Founded: 2017
Key People: CEO Gregory Constantine Ph.D
Elevator Pitch: Carbon-negative industry products intended to transform carbon dioxide captured from the air into impurity-free alcohols and fuels.
Funding: The company raised $30.39 million of Series A venture funding in a deal led by Carbon Direct Capital Management on November 22, 2023. Toyota Ventures, JetBlue Ventures, MCJ Collective, New Climate Ventures, and National Science Foundation also participated in the round.
Founded: 2023
Key People: CEO Sarah Najmark
Elevator Pitch: An artificial intelligence platform intended for advanced and sustainable materials discovery.
Funding: The company raised $2.6 million of seed funding from the Raise Phiture Foundation Inc., Ebert HERA, and Kima Ventures on November 22, 2023. Singular and 9 other investors also participated in the round.
Look for a new episode of Securing the Future Podcasts wherever you listen. In our latest episode, we have guest Austin Grey sit down with General Partner Jeremy Hitchcock for an engaging conversation about innovation in the defense space.
