Lockheed Martin announced on April 14 that it will increase the capacity of its venture capital fund, Lockheed Martin Ventures, from $400 million to $1 billion. This marks the largest boost in investment since the fund was established in 2007.
The expansion is intended to help mature critical technologies for national security and accelerate their transition from research and development into availability within the Defense Industrial Base. According to Evan Scott, Chief Financial Officer at Lockheed Martin, “Our venture capital investments are a critical part of our overall strategy to develop and integrate the best technologies for national security now and in the future. Our investments help create a pipeline of cutting-edge technologies that create a resilient industrial base, drive growth, and ultimately help the United States and its allies deter the most pressing emerging threats.”
Since its founding nearly two decades ago with initial funding of $100 million, Lockheed Martin Ventures has invested more than $500 million in over 120 companies. More than 60 companies have become suppliers to Lockheed Martin, receiving over $750 million in contracts from the company. In just the past two years, 25 new companies have been added to its portfolio.
The fund focuses on supporting promising technologies that complement Lockheed Martin’s national security capabilities across areas such as quantum computing, autonomy, artificial intelligence (AI), directed energy, advanced materials, and microelectronics. As these new capabilities enter into use by defense organizations through partnerships with portfolio companies, they are expected to improve efficiency and cost effectiveness while strengthening deterrence against emerging threats.
Looking ahead, Lockheed Martin Ventures will host its ninth annual Demo Day this August at company headquarters. The event aims to showcase both current portfolio firms and new start-ups driving innovation for aerospace and defense.
