NATO Invests in UK Startups Fractile and Space Forge

The NATO Innovation Fund (NIF), a €1 billion initiative supported by 24 NATO countries, has recently announced its backing of four deeptech startups in Europe with long-term equity investments. This significant investment aims to advance innovation in various cutting-edge technologies, including novel materials, manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and space exploration.

Among the startups receiving support from the NIF are Space Forge, based in Wales, and Fractile AI, located in London. Space Forge is focused on developing automated factories that operate in orbit to produce high-quality materials, while Fractile AI is working on chip design to accelerate AI applications, particularly in generative AI Large Language Models (LLMs).

Additionally, the NIF is collaborating with venture capital firms such as Alpine Space Ventures, OTB Ventures, Join Capital, and Vsquared Ventures to provide early-stage funding for deeptech startups across Europe. This strategic partnership aims to foster innovation and drive technological advancements in key areas such as energy, quantum computing, biotechnology, and next-generation communications over the next 15 years.

One of the startups supported by the NIF, ARX Robotics, specializes in scalable robotic systems for defense and commercial applications. Another company, iCOMAT, based in Bristol, focuses on composite manufacturing to deliver lighter, stronger, and more sustainable structures for aerospace and automotive industries.

David van Weel, Assistant Secretary General for Innovation, Hybrid, and Cyber at NATO, expressed pride in the Fund's investments, emphasizing the importance of supporting strategic technologies to ensure a safe and prosperous future for the Alliance's citizens. He highlighted the role of innovative solutions in addressing challenges and strengthening defense, security, and resilience across nations.

Adam Niewinski, co-founder and Managing Partner of OTB Ventures, underscored the significance of investing in deeptech startups in Europe, noting the region's rich talent pool and its potential to tackle global challenges through advanced technologies. The establishment of the NATO Innovation Fund reflects a commitment to supporting these investments and leveraging expertise to explore new markets and applications.