Vet trying to pivot from IB into defense tech VC, how do you actually break in?
Looking for honest advice from anyone in or around defense tech VC.
Quick background so the question makes sense:
- Applied math major at an Ivy, adding an AI minor, which pushed my grad date to Dec 2028. So I've got a free summer in 2028 to intern.
- Did the normal recruiting grind and got a top BB offer for summer 2027. Grateful for it, but the longer I sat with it, the more I realized banking isn't what I want to do.
- I'm a veteran, and I'm really into defense tech. It's the space I want to be in, I just haven't figured out where in it yet.
- On the side, I built a small data product for the def-tech world and funded it myself. It's basically an analyst's toolkit for sizing up these companies and whether their tech actually has a shot at getting bought by the government. Brought on a few advisors. Not trying to make it some huge company, I built it because I wanted it to exist and to help people in the space. Everyone who's touched it likes it, though, to be honest, no actual VCs have used it yet.
So I know I want to be in defense tech, and I'm leaning toward VC. I like the sourcing and diligence side of it, and I've kind of been doing a scrappy version of that, building this thing. What I don't know is how people actually break in.
A few questions for anyone who's done it or hires interns:
- For a builder + veteran background (not the usual IB to VC route), what's the most realistic path into a def-tech VC seat?
- Are there fellowships, scout programs, or venture fellow tracks specific to defense / national security VC worth knowing about?
- When do the smaller def-tech firms actually recruit interns? I know it's not the structured BB calendar, so is it mostly off cycle / as needed?
- Is breaking in mostly a networking game? And if so, where does that networking actually happen for this space?
Appreciate any real takes. Happy to DM.
Breaking into defense tech VC with your unique background as a veteran and builder is definitely possible, but it requires a strategic approach. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s how you can position yourself effectively:
1. Leverage Your Builder + Veteran Background
2. Realistic Path into Defense Tech VC
3. Timing and Recruitment
4. Networking in Defense Tech VC
5. Additional Tips
By combining your unique background, networking strategically, and showcasing your builder mindset, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for a defense tech VC role.
Sources: Breaking into Venture Capital out of Undergrad??, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/venture-capital/this-forum-helped-me-go-from-blackstone-to-facebook-to-ycombinator-startup?customgpt=1, Current VC associate taking questions, Transitioning Veteran Advice Please
Check out any and all funds / startups in the Gundo (El Segundo). Not sure where you're at rn but LA would generally give you lots of shots on goal. Anything on "American Dynamism" by a16z (incl. portcos) would be a good starting point for you
Not in VC but think I have a decent pulse from conversations. I'd say ivy/veteran/IB is a strong background for a VC move. As you mentioned, VC doesn't have a structured recruitment process like IB does. It's mostly if someone leaves the fund or they raised a new round and are looking to expand. I am fairly confident that New North Ventures, Defense Innovation Unit and In-Q-Tel offer summer intern opportunities. Not sure about these firms, but worth a shot: https://www.vcsheet.com/sheet/aerospace-and-defense. I would search on LinkedIn for Vets doing an MBA and type in defense or VC, because there may be smaller ones this site didn't pick up. Also, not sure if Corporate VC do internships but those are good roles too.
VC is such a networking game. I'd just hit up a ton of people in the space, maybe provide a deep-dive into an emerging tech that interests you or a few interesting companies in a stage that they invest in. IB is def a pathway in but you could also look to work at a defense tech startup for a few years and then make the move.
Best of luck.
Aperiam est illum cumque dolores quod. Adipisci sapiente incidunt et adipisci laudantium architecto pariatur. Facere debitis fuga et quam voluptate aut hic. Laboriosam rerum voluptatem dolor asperiores. Quasi tempora quod esse ex. Veritatis consectetur hic qui aut nesciunt assumenda.
Sunt fugiat eum consequatur sint sit. Facilis non ad ipsa harum ad dignissimos. Facilis maxime enim deleniti autem iure molestiae.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...