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Our Mission
Growing
North Carolina’s
Dual-use
Innovation
Ecosystem
About Us
The Defense Alliance Foundation (DAF), a 501(c)(3) organization established in April 2023 under the Defense Alliance of North Carolina, builds on 15 years of volunteer-driven impact to advance North Carolina’s defense innovation ecosystem through education, collaboration, and strategic initiatives focused on national security, innovation, and economic growth.
Our participants secured awards and investor capital total estimated $3 billion.
Created 300 new jobs and supporting startup formation across North Carolina.
Assisted businesses with divestitures and patent portfolio expansion.
What We Do
DAF organizes forums, symposiums, workshops, and educational events across North Carolina to explore emerging technologies and defense challenges, providing insights and opportunities for veterans, underserved communities, and innovation ecosystems.
We mentor individuals, businesses, and startups, offering technical expertise, strategic guidance, and vital connections to foster measurable success.
Mentoring
Consulting
Strategy
Team Formation
Commercialization
Ventures
Where We Work
DAF focuses on leveraging North Carolina’s strengths in cutting-edge industries while continually exploring new opportunities. By aligning efforts with the state’s innovation capabilities, DAF helps build a resilient, future-forward economy.
Autonomous Systems
Advanced Manufacturing
Data & Knowledge Management
Human Performance
Materials
Power
Connect With Us
We invite you to visit our Connect Page to request a brief complimentary phone call to explore mission alignment and potential collaboration.
Due to limited staffing, we may have varying capacity to assist at any given time, but we are committed to working with organizations whose goals align with our mission.
Let’s start the conversation and explore how we can make an impact together.
