Oversubscribed, The Veteran Fund is driving innovation in critical sectors like space, AI, and cybersecurity, leveraging veterans’ resilience and leadership.
SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Veteran Fund is proud to announce the successful, oversubscribed closing of their inaugural investment Fund I. The fund was launched to support and empower veterans across the U.S. in their journey post-service. Founded by General Partners Ryan Micheletti, Mike Sherbakov, Lisa Song Sutton, and Justin Nahama, The Veteran Fund invests in early-stage startups led by veterans, focusing on critical, dual-use technologies that address national and commercial challenges alike.
“Veterans bring unmatched resilience, leadership, and mission-driven mindsets to the private sector,” says Micheletti. “The Veteran Fund was created to harness this potential, empowering veteran entrepreneurs to drive advancements in technology while securing America’s future.”
A Mission of Impact and Innovation
The Veteran Fund is dedicated to advancing America through venture capital, focusing on sectors where technology meets mission, such as cybersecurity, AI, drones, space, advanced computing, and additive manufacturing. By investing in veteran-led companies, the fund turns grit and expertise into transformative technologies, propelling the U.S. forward in both national security and commercial markets.
The Fund’s rapid success is reflected in its oversubscription and portfolio performance, a testament to its compelling mission. This milestone highlights the growing recognition of dual-use technologies that address critical priorities while unlocking commercial opportunities.
“Our investors see the value in veteran-led businesses that tackle complex challenges with resilience and precision,” says Sutton. “This momentum allows us to expand our reach, scaling investments and preparing for the launch of Fund II, which will support an even larger portfolio of impactful startups.”
Empowering Veteran Entrepreneurs Beyond Capital
Veterans face unique challenges when transitioning to the private sector, including limited access to funding, mentorship, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. The Veteran Fund addresses these obstacles by offering more than just financial support:
- Strategic Mentorship and Operational Guidance
- Access to Non-Dilutive Funding Opportunities
- Introductions to Industry Leaders and Government Agencies
- A Thriving Community of Veteran Entrepreneurs
These resources have helped the fund build a portfolio of groundbreaking companies, such as a data center company that successfully landed on the moon and a cybersecurity company led by a Navy SEAL protecting critical infrastructure.
Veterans Day: Honoring Service and Innovation
This Veterans Day, The Veteran Fund underscored its commitment to empowering veterans to redefine what’s possible in venture-backed startups by hosting a $100,000 Veteran Pitch Competition with Silicon Valley celebrity, Jason Calacanis. At the event, one winner was awarded a $100,000 investment from The Veteran Fund, and Jason Calacanis committed to reviewing the company for investment as well.
By breaking barriers to entry, the fund increases veteran representation in technology sectors, fostering a new generation of leaders equipped to tackle national and global challenges.
“Our mission is about more than financial returns,” says Nahama. “We’re building a legacy that honors veterans’ service by supporting their transition into impactful entrepreneurs who lead in innovation and resilience.”
Scaling for Greater Impact
With plans to launch a larger Fund II in 2025, The Veteran Fund is eager to engage with values-aligned investors and veteran founders who share its vision for advancing America through technology. “By empowering veterans to build billion-dollar technology companies, we’re not just investing in great businesses,” says Mike Sherbakov, “we are investing in the future leaders of our country.”
About The Veteran Fund
The Veteran Fund is a venture capital firm advancing America by investing in veteran-led companies developing critical, dual-use technologies for national security and commercial markets. Focused on sectors like cybersecurity, AI, space, and advanced manufacturing, the fund is led by General Partners Ryan Micheletti, Mike Sherbakov, Lisa Song Sutton, and Justin Nahama. It empowers veterans to leverage their leadership, resilience, and mission-driven mindset to address pressing challenges. By providing capital, mentorship, and strategic support, The Veteran Fund fosters a new generation of leaders driving innovation. Learn more at www.veteran.fund.
Contacts
Mike Sherbakov
[email protected]
