Nuked 
Hello, tech enthusiasts! Let’s dive into an intriguing development in the world of defense technology and venture capital.
Europe is realizing the importance of bolstering defense, and Lithuania is taking bold steps. Unlike many countries, Lithuania didn’t wait for the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to commit significant resources to military spending.
With its sovereign VC fund, Coinvest Capital, Lithuania aims to innovate in defense tech without needing civilian applications. This pioneering fund, operational since March 2023, is at the forefront of supporting defense startups.
One notable investment went to Unmanned Defense Systems (UDS), focused on enhancing military capabilities. Coinvest has poured approximately €6.8 million into various defense and dual-use startups since its inception, a significant feat for this Baltic nation of about 2.89 million.
What sets Coinvest apart is its collaborative approach, co-investing with business angels and other VCs while advocating for a profit-sharing model that benefits early investors. Lithuania’s startup scene has bloomed over the past decade, yet it still seeks impactful exits like Skype’s, which profoundly changed Estonia’s tech landscape.
Viktorija Trimbel, managing partner of Coinvest, embodies the spirit of resilience. She witnessed firsthand the events of 1991 when Russian tanks threatened Lithuania’s independence and is fiercely dedicated to ensuring her country is well-prepared.
As war looms in neighboring Ukraine, initiatives like the public fundraising campaign Radarom have gathered significant support for military supplies, underscoring Lithuania’s dedication to supporting its allies.
Trimbel champions practical involvement, encouraging citizens to join volunteer efforts to enhance national defense preparedness. Her mission extends to nurturing startup innovations outside defense tech to foster overall growth.
Coinvest’s portfolio even includes initiatives focused on health and wellness, proving that resilience extends beyond military capabilities. Trimbel’s unwavering commitment to European defense is a reflection of her name, ‘Viktorija,’ meaning victory.
In conclusion, Lithuania stands as a beacon for defense innovation in Europe, effectively utilizing its resources to build a sturdy security framework while fostering a flourishing startup ecosystem. The future looks promising for Lithuanian defense ventures!
