National security has always been a top priority for governments worldwide, and innovation has played a critical role in enhancing it. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for private sector innovation to support government initiatives. In this context, public-private partnerships and dual-use technologies have emerged as powerful tools for national security innovation. In a recent interview with Callye Keen, Pete Newell, Founder and CEO of BMNT, discussed his insights on innovation in national security and the importance of public-private partnerships and dual-use technologies.
Dual-use Technologies: An Emerging Trend in National Security
Dual-use technologies, or those with both military and civilian applications, have emerged as a significant trend in national security innovation. According to Newell, dual-use technologies can help bridge the gap between the private sector and the government, enabling the development of solutions that meet the needs of both. Moreover, dual-use technologies can help leverage the expertise of the private sector to address complex national security challenges.
Dual-use technologies include drones, encryption, and GPS. Drones can be used for delivery services, photography, and agriculture, as well as for military purposes, such as surveillance and strikes. Encryption can be used in civilian applications, such as online banking and communication, as well as in military applications to protect classified information. GPS is a navigation system that was originally developed by the US military for military purposes, such as guiding missiles and aircraft. However, it is now widely used in civilian applications, such as navigation systems for cars and smartphones.
Newell highlighted that the Department of Defense (DoD) has made significant strides in promoting the use of dual-use technologies in national security. Through initiatives like the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the DoD has been able to tap into the innovation potential of the private sector. The DoD has started partnering with venture capital firms to invest in companies developing dual-use technologies.
The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in National Security Innovation
Public-private partnerships, contractual arrangements between a government or a public sector entity and a private sector company, have also emerged as a crucial tool for national security innovation. These so-called “PPP’s” include things such as toll roads, sanitation companies, and healthcare. In each of these examples, a private company invests in and operates the entity in partnership with the local, state, or federal government.
According to Newell, public-private partnerships can help in developing solutions that are not only effective but also cost-efficient. Moreover, public-private partnerships can help in accelerating the development of solutions, which is critical in addressing fast-evolving national security challenges.
Newell highlighted that public-private partnerships require a clear understanding of the problem statement and a shared vision of the solution. Additionally, public-private partnerships require an understanding of the incentives of each party involved. Newell also emphasized the need for these partnerships to be structured in a way that benefits both parties and is sustainable in the long run.
Innovation Ecosystems: Nurturing the Next Generation of National Security Innovators
Innovation ecosystems have emerged as a critical component of national security innovation. According to Newell, innovation ecosystems bring together stakeholders from different sectors, including academia, industry, and government, to collaborate on innovation initiatives. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, innovation ecosystems can help develop solutions that are effective, efficient, and sustainable.
Newell highlighted that innovation ecosystems require a culture of collaboration and experimentation. Moreover, leadership that can create an environment of trust and openness, where stakeholders feel free to share ideas and work together is also required. Innovation ecosystems require resources and infrastructure to support innovation activities, including funding, incubation spaces, and mentorship programs.
Investing in Human Capital: Building a Skilled Workforce for National Security Innovation
Investing in human capital has emerged as a critical factor in national security innovation. According to Newell, building a skilled workforce is essential in developing and implementing innovative solutions. Moreover, investing in human capital is critical in creating a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within the government.
Newell highlighted that investing in human capital requires a long-term approach. This includes developing training programs that focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, providing opportunities for experiential learning, and creating career paths that reward innovation and risk-taking. Additionally, investing in human capital requires a shift in the mindset of government employees, from risk aversion to a culture of experimentation and innovation.
Innovation has emerged as a critical tool for enhancing national security, and public-private partnerships and dual-use technologies have become increasingly important in this context. Innovation ecosystems and investing in human capital have also played an important role in developing technologies for national defense. The Startup Defense, a podcast that explores how startups can contribute to national defense, recently hosted Pete Newell, the CEO of BMNT, a consultancy that specializes in innovation, problem-solving, and technology integration.
Conclusion
The conversation with Pete Newell on The Startup Defense highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships, dual-use technologies, investing in human capital, and innovation ecosystems for national defense. Startups can play a critical role in developing technologies for national defense, but they must focus on building a strong team, being part of an innovation ecosystem, and developing a dual-use investment thesis.
Interested in the entire episode with Pete Newell? Listen as host Callye Keen interviews him on episode 003 of The Startup Defense podcast. Available on all podcast platforms.
About Peter Newell
Pete Newell is a nationally recognized innovation expert whose work is transforming how the government and other large organizations compete and drive growth. He is the CEO of BMNT, an internationally recognized innovation consultancy and early-stage tech accelerator that helps solve some of the hardest real-world problems in national security, state and local governments, and beyond.
In addition, Pete is Co-Founder and Board Director of The Common Mission Project, the 501c3 nonprofit responsible for creating an international network of mission-driven entrepreneurs, including through programs like H4D®.
Prior to joining BMNT, Pete served as the Director of the US Army’s Rapid Equipping Force (REF). Reporting directly to the senior leadership of the Army, he was charged with rapidly finding, integrating, and employing solutions to emerging problems faced by Soldiers on the battlefield. From 2010 to 2013 Pete led the REF in the investment of over $1.4B in efforts designed to counter the effects of improvised explosive devices, reduce small units exposure to suicide bombers and rocket attacks and to reduce their reliance on long resupply chains.
Peter Newell - CEO of BMNT
