Balnord, a high-conviction VC firm focused on deep tech investments in Poland and the Baltics, announces the release of "Navigating  Dual-Use  Technologies: A Founder’s Handbook to Opportunities and Challenges," the first comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs building technologies that serve both commercial markets and government sectors.

The handbook, featuring contributions from 24 industry experts, including industry leaders, successful founders, and investors, provides practical guidance for navigating the complex dual-use technology development and commercialization landscape.

"Recent geopolitical shifts have accelerated the convergence of commercial and government technologies, creating unprecedented opportunities.

Europe faces a stark choice: build autonomous technology capabilities or remain dependent on external solutions. This handbook offers insights from those actively building in this space, providing guidance on developing truly impactful companies that serve both commercial success and European technological sovereignty."

says Marcin P. Kowalik, General Partner at Balnord.

The dual-use technology sector represents a long-term strategic opportunity, not a momentary trend. While investments in technologies protecting safety reached $5.365 billion between 2016-2022 over a 6-year period, the past 1000 days have seen a staggering 186% surge in funding, totaling $5.08 billion.

"As a public institution, PFR actively supports the development of dual-use technologies that play a crucial role in strengthening Europe's resilience and security. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is indispensable to realize the full potential of dual-use technologies. This handbook is an important step that provides technology company founders the necessary tools to work effectively with government institutions and national security stakeholders."

says Eliza Kruczkowska, Director of Innovation Development at PFR.

Key topics covered in the handbook include:

• Building successful business models and pricing strategies,
• Accessing EU funding and venture capital investment,
• Lessons learned from the Ukrainian market,
• Strategic role of public investment institutions,
• NATO and EU innovation programs,
• Developing effective go-to-market strategies,
• Creating paths to successful exits.

"The release of this handbook underscores Balnord's commitment to supporting the next generation of deep tech founders in Europe. Our fills a crucial knowledge gap in the deep tech ecosystem. It provides founders with practical tools and insights needed to build successful dual-use companies from inception to fruitful exit“

notes Wojciech Drewczynski, Operating Partner in Balnord.

The release of "Navigating Dual-Use Technologies: A Founder's Handbook to Opportunities and Challenges" marks a significant step forward in supporting Europe's deep tech entrepreneurs. This resource empowers founders to build the next generation of impactful dual-use companies that strengthen the region's technological sovereignty and drive sustainable economic growth by bridging the gap between commercial viability and government relevance.

The publication can be downloaded on the website: 
‍https://resources.balnord.vc/dual-use-handbook

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