Semiconductors, Defense Tech, and Venture Capital, Fundings: Space Product and Innovation, Sea Machines, Tandem PV
17 January 2024 - A Weekly Publication by New North Ventures
In our latest podcast episode, host Jeremy Hitchcock engages in a compelling conversation with Stephen DiBartolomeo, a Navy cryptologist turned venture capitalist and founder, as he shares his remarkable journey from military service to civilian life. Stephen's transition unfolds through a SkillBridge fellowship, with the discussion offering valuable insights into how this experience has shaped his dual roles investing in and building companies.
The episode delves into Stephen's roles at Forge Point Capital and Scout Ventures, shedding light on emerging trends in venture capital. A particularly intriguing aspect is Stephen's dual role as an investor and founder at Chiplytics, a hardware security company addressing supply chain vulnerabilities. The discussion emphasizes the intersection of negotiation skills and a deep understanding of technology development timelines gained through entrepreneurship.
For those seeking insight into a career in venture capital or entrepreneurship and a closer look at the dynamic landscape, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Stephen on navigating the ever-evolving intersection of venture capital and entrepreneurship. Listen wherever you stream your podcasts or on Spotify below:
Navy Prioritizing Hybrid Manned-Unmanned Fleet
The U.S. Navy is prioritizing innovation and strategic thinking, envisioning a future where sailors and unmanned systems work together in a hybrid fleet.
Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro mentioned that the transition to a hybrid fleet is not a distant vision and is actively happening, with unmanned systems seamlessly integrated into operations in the Indo-Pacific, the Middle East, and the Caribbean.
Initiatives like Task Force 59 and Operation Windward Stack showcase the Navy's progress in accumulating operational experience with unmanned surface, air, and subsurface vehicles.
The Disruptive Capabilities Office, described as the "Unmanned Task Force on steroids," is part of the Navy's contribution to the Defense Department's Replicator initiative, aiming to build thousands of attritable, autonomous systems at scale within a specific timeframe.
New Netsafe Alliance Formed to Combat Rising Cyber Fraud
An alliance led by Netsafe, including New North Ventures portfolio company CYBERA, Dolla, and Akahu, has been formed to combat cyber fraud in the banking, cryptocurrency, and telecommunications sectors.
With cyber threats costing the New Zealand economy up to NZD 2 billion annually, the collaboration aims to provide robust consumer services, fraud recovery, and scam prevention measures.
Solutions include a confirmation of payee service for verifying the name associated with bank accounts, enhancing scam investigations, and freezing mule accounts swiftly.
The alliance leverages Netsafe's expertise in scam incident response, CYBERA's fraud recovery support, Dolla's technology for blocking scam SMS messages, and Akahu's confirmation of payee service to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and protect the financial interests of New Zealanders.
Founded:Â 2015
Key People: CEO Angelo Huang
Elevator Pitch: Multipurpose adapter products designed to replenish depleted satellite systems.
Funding:Â The company raised EUR 1.6 million of seed funding in a deal led by Galaxia on January 15, 2024.
Founded:Â 2014
Key People:Â CEO Michael Johnson
Elevator Pitch:Â Autonomous control and dynamic vessel management systems designed to control boats and sea vessels remotely.
Funding: The company raised $14.08 million of venture funding from undisclosed investors on January 12, 2024.
Founded:Â 2016
Key People: CEO Jignesh Parikh
Elevator Pitch: Silicon solar panels technology designed to improve solar panel efficiency.
Funding: The company raised $6 million of venture funding in a deal led by Planetary Technologies on January 16, 2024.
Look for a new episode of Securing the Future Podcasts wherever you listen. In our most recent episode, we have Stephen DiBartolomeo, Principal at Scout Ventures, sit down with General Partner Jeremy Hitchcock for an engaging conversation about venture capital and entrepreneurship.