In the Room with Peter Bergen How the CIA got into the Venture Capital Game
Jan 21, 2025
Sue Gordon, a career intelligence officer and one of the founders of In-Q-Tel, discusses how the CIA ventured into the world of venture capital to keep pace with Silicon Valley's rapid tech advancements. She highlights the challenges of bridging the gap between government needs and startup innovation. Gordon explains how In-Q-Tel invests in cutting-edge technologies to bolster national security while navigating the complexities of government funding. This intriguing conversation unveils the symbiotic relationship between intelligence and tech innovation.
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IP Ownership Spurs Innovation
- In-Q allows companies to retain IP ownership, motivating startups to work with government.
- This departs from traditional government contracts where the government owns the IP, which slowed innovation.
Nonprofit Model for Impact
- In-Q is a private nonprofit funded by the government, designed to deliver mission-focused investments.
- Nonprofit status ensures profits are reinvested to serve government national security interests.
Competitive Pay Attracts Talent
- Pay competitive salaries to attract top venture investment talent.
- Without this, government-adjacent roles risk losing talent to high-paying defense contractors.
