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Squadra Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2019 and headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, with an additional office in Washington, D.C. The firm was established by Guy Filippelli, a former Army intelligence officer who previously founded and sold RedOwl Analytics to Forcepoint in 2017. Squadra Ventures focuses on early-stage companies innovating in national security technologies, particularly those with dual-use applications that serve both military and commercial sectors.
As of now, Squadra Ventures manages a fund size of $105 million and has invested in a total of 33 companies. The firm emphasizes enhancing national security and cybersecurity through its investments, aiming to support startups that develop critical technologies in areas such as operational efficiency and advanced ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) capabilities. Their commitment to these sectors has positioned them as a key player in the venture capital landscape.
Squadra Ventures invests primarily in early-stage startups that are developing technologies to enhance national security and cybersecurity. Their investment strategy encompasses pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A funding, with typical check sizes ranging from $1 million to $4 million. The firm emphasizes a growth-stage mindset at the seed stage, aiming to help entrepreneurs make strategic decisions that enhance their companies' value and operational efficiency.
The sectors of interest for Squadra Ventures include cybersecurity, defense, artificial intelligence, healthcare, fintech, biotech, energy, IoT, proptech, and web3. Their investment thesis highlights the importance of dual-use technologies that can be applied in both government and commercial contexts. This focus allows them to support innovation in critical areas such as operational efficiency and advanced ISR capabilities, making them a unique player in the venture capital space.
Squadra Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of 33 companies, focusing on sectors that enhance national security and cybersecurity. Notable portfolio companies include:
Guy Filippelli - Managing Partner: Guy is a former Army intelligence officer and the founder of RedOwl Analytics, which was sold to Forcepoint. He has extensive experience in cybersecurity and national security.
Margaret Roth - Principal: Margaret brings a strong background in venture capital and technology commercialization, focusing on identifying promising startups in the national security sector.
Dan Madden - Principal: Dan has a background in national security innovation, having served as the Mid-Atlantic Regional Director at the National Security Innovation Network.
John Timken - COO + CFO: John oversees the firm's operations and financial management, ensuring efficient processes and strategic growth.
Dominic Ventimiglia - Head of Network Operations: Dominic manages the firm's network operations, leveraging his expertise to enhance portfolio company performance.
To pitch to Squadra Ventures, founders should submit their decks through the application portal on their website. The firm prefers concise presentations that clearly outline the technology, market opportunity, and team qualifications. A warm introduction is beneficial but not mandatory. Response times may vary, but founders can expect feedback within a few weeks.
In March 2023, Squadra Ventures announced the closing of Fund II at $105 million, focusing on seed-stage dual-use technology companies. This fund aims to support startups that serve government, military, and mission-critical industries.
In January 2023, Adam Bixler joined Squadra Ventures as a Principal, bringing over 20 years of experience in cybersecurity and military operations.
What are Squadra Ventures' investment criteria?
Squadra Ventures invests in early-stage companies that focus on national security and cybersecurity technologies, particularly those developing dual-use applications for both military and commercial sectors.
How can I apply or pitch to Squadra Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas by submitting their decks through the application portal available on their website at squadra.vc. Alternatively, they can reach out via email at info@squadra.vc.
What makes Squadra Ventures different from other venture capital firms?
Squadra Ventures has a unique focus on dual-use technologies that enhance national security and cybersecurity. Their founder-operator team brings deep expertise in navigating the complexities of government and military applications.
What is the geographic scope of Squadra Ventures' investments?
The firm primarily invests in companies based in the United States, focusing on technologies that serve national security and mission-critical industries.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
Squadra Ventures manages a fund size of $105 million, with typical check sizes ranging from $1 million to $4 million for their investments.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Squadra Ventures have?
Squadra Ventures provides transformational support to its portfolio companies, leveraging their expertise to enhance operational efficiency and cybersecurity capabilities.
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