Empowering Rapid Innovation in National Security: Venture Capital, Startups, and the Defense and Intelligence Communities
Part of the ABA Standing Committee on Law and National Security’s 35th Annual Review of the Field of National Security Law CLE Conference. Co-sponsored by the National Security Institute.
The accelerating pace of technological innovation is reshaping the national security landscape—creating extraordinary opportunities, but also new challenges for government institutions that must move faster than ever before. Startups and venture-backed companies are leading rapid advances in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems, while defense and intelligence agencies struggle to adapt procurement and oversight processes to keep up.
This panel will examine how legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks—as well as agency culture and risk tolerance—affect the government’s ability to partner effectively with the private sector. Panelists will explore barriers to entry for startups, evolving compliance and liability challenges, and new models for collaboration that can bridge the gap between innovators and national security institutions.
The discussion will focus on identifying practical steps to modernize acquisition and oversight, reform outdated processes, and build a culture that rewards agility and innovation—ensuring the U.S. maintains its strategic edge in an era of accelerating technological change.
Panelists
- Stephanie Bellistri – General Partner, New North Ventures
- Sarah Istel – Managing Director, Cerberus Ventures
- Matthew Olsen – Partner and Co-Chair, Defense, National Security & Governments Contracts Practice, WilmerHale
- Christopher Steed – Chief Investment Office and Managing Director, Paladin Capital Group
Moderator:
- Jamil N. Jaffer – Founder and Executive Director, National Security Institute
Event Details:
- Thursday, November 13, 10:45 – 12:00 PM
- Omni Shoreham Hotel, 2500 Calvert St NW, Washington, DC