NATO Innovation Fund announces first investments

The NATO Innovation Fund (NIF) totals one billion euro

Image credit: Image Creator from Microsoft Designer/DALL.E and Canva

The one billion euro ($1.1 billion) NATO Innovation Fund (NIF) has announced its first investments in four companies—ARX Robotics, Fractile, iCOMAT, and Space Forge.

Here are a few key points:

• These investments are part of the NIF’s strategy to strengthen the defense, security, and resilience of Allies by improving manufacturing, making air travel faster and more fuel-efficient, advancing artificial intelligence, and powering autonomous robotic solutions.

• Additionally, the Fund is supporting four venture capital funds—Alpine Space Ventures, OTB Ventures, Join Capital, and Vsquared Ventures—with expertise in deep technologies such as space tech, quantum cryptography, and AI.

• This move aims to promote technological sovereignty and boost deep tech hubs in regions where capital for early-stage startups is in high demand.

“ARX Robotics, a manufacturer of scalable robotic systems for mass deployment in defence, commercial and humanitarian applications to future-proof armed forces, and increase the safety and efficiency of workforces.”

“Fractile, an AI company that is developing transformative computing technology to enhance collective AI capabilities by enabling the largest and most capable neural networks of today and tomorrow to run faster, more efficiently and sustainably.”

“iCOMAT, an advanced composite manufacturing company that delivers lighter, stronger and more sustainable structures for aerospace and automotive vehicles faster and more cost-effectively.”

“Space Forge, a company that utilises the space environment to manufacture advanced semiconductor materials for critical infrastructure, ensuring more powerful and resilient capabilities across telecommunications, aerospace, and quantum.”