Your questions, answered

What is NSSIF?

The National Security Strategic Investment Fund (NSSIF) is the UK Government's deep tech venture capital fund for National Security and Defence. It is a partnership between the NS&D community and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) that invests in pioneering dual-use technologies to rapidly accelerate development to secure the UK's future security and prosperity.

What can NSSIF do for me?

NSSIF acts as a strategic catalyst for the UK’s National Security technology ecosystem. We invest in pioneering start-ups, fund innovative work programmes with high-potential companies and deliver deep market insight to help government and industry make smarter, lower-risk technology decisions.

Unlike traditional venture capital, our approach is driven by mission demand, backing innovations that strengthen UK defence and security while unlocking commercial growth.

By aligning strategic priorities with market opportunity, NSSIF helps build a resilient, globally competitive industrial base.

What sort of technologies does NSSIF fund?

NSSIF backs technologies that address current and future needs across the UK’s National Security and Defence (NS&D) landscape. Our focus spans four strategic themes:

• AI & Data
• Quantum, Semiconductors & Advanced Compute
• Space & Communications
• Emerging Technologies - including areas such as engineering biology and advanced materials.

We assess opportunities across Horizons 1, 2 and 3, investing in dual-use technologies with both commercial viability and strategic relevance. Our capital is deployed through:

• Direct equity investments in early-stage companies
• Partnerships with aligned venture capital funds

Does NSSIF collaborate with other government departments?

Yes. NSSIF works closely with a range of government departments to ensure our investments are strategically aligned and deliver cross-government value. Collaboration is central to our mission.

How does NSSIF select companies to invest in?

We invest in companies that align with National Security priorities and demonstrate strong commercial potential. Each opportunity is evaluated on its technological innovation, strategic relevance, scalability, and ability to deliver real-world impact.

Our selection process combines rigorous due diligence with insights from government and industry experts. We aim to ensure every investment strengthens the UK’s NS&D innovation ecosystem - supporting technologies that matter and businesses that can scale.

What stage of companies does NSSIF invest in?

Our focus is on early-stage ventures - typically at Seed or Series A - with the potential to transform NS&D capabilities. We usually invest as minority syndicate members and do not tend to lead rounds.

As companies grow, we support them in navigating NS&D procurement pathways and accessing further capital. We work closely with other government investors, such as the British Business Bank, to help founders secure the funding they need to scale.

How do I get in touch with NSSIF?

We’re always seeking exciting companies to collaborate with and we’re intentional about who we choose, placing real value on the principles and purpose that drive your organisation.

See our Contact us page for more details.

Please note, we review all enquiries that we receive but, as a demand-led organisation, can only respond to where your capabilities align with our NS&D priorities.