
Fellowship
The Academy Investor Network (AIN), now operating as AIN Ventures, is a seed-stage venture capital fund founded in 2020 to connect the US military academy system with the venture capital ecosystem. The fellowship allows transitioning military service members to gain civilian work experience in venture capital through the Department of Defense SkillBridge program. Participants work directly with the investment team, gaining experience in research, deal sourcing, due diligence, and fund operations. AIN focuses on dual-use technology and veteran-led startups, believing that military backgrounds foster exceptional venture opportunities.
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AIN Ventures focuses on investing in dual-use technology and veteran-led startups. The program believes that founders with military backgrounds possess unique grit and technical innovation that can lead to exceptional venture opportunities. By connecting military talent with the venture capital ecosystem, AIN aims to create a structured path for transitioning military officers into the venture capital industry.
The fellowship is available to transitioning military service members eligible for the DoD SkillBridge program, typically in their final 6 months of active duty. Applications are by invitation only.
SkillBridge fellows continue to receive their military pay and benefits during the fellowship, with no additional compensation from AIN.
The fellowship is free for participants, as they continue to receive their military pay during the program.
The fellowship lasts approximately 6 months, aligning with the DoD SkillBridge transition period.
The fellowship requires a full-time commitment from participants, aligning with their final months of active duty.
The program operates in a hybrid model, allowing for both remote and in-person participation.
TechCrunch: "Can the military academies compete with Stanford and Harvard in venture?" - Link Inc. Magazine: "This Veteran Went From the Battlefield to the Boardroom." - Link NSIN: "Investor Spotlight - AIN Ventures." - Link Medium: "Announcing the Academy Investor Network." - Link Scout VC Blog: "Launching AIN to Address the Gap in Veteran Entrepreneurship." - Link
Applicants should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for the DoD SkillBridge program and be prepared to demonstrate their interest in venture capital and dual-use technology.
Q: Who can apply for the fellowship? A: Transitioning military service members eligible for the DoD SkillBridge program can apply. Q: Is there any compensation? A: Fellows receive their military pay and benefits but no additional compensation from AIN.
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