TechCrunch Startup News This American VC is betting on European defense tech; that’s still very unusual
May 14, 2025
In this discussion, Eric Slesinger, a former CIA officer and founder of 201 Ventures, shares his unique perspective on investing in European defense tech startups. Unlike typical American VCs chasing AI, he dives into the nuances of the European market, identifying emerging opportunities amidst shifting geopolitical landscapes. Eric highlights the cultural challenges he faces and shares insights on why this sector is ripe for investment, painting a picture of a rapidly evolving landscape that may surprise many.
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CIA to VC Journey
- Eric Schlesinger left the CIA to pursue his ambition of investing in defense tech in Europe.
- He enjoys going where others don’t and doing what they can’t, a principle from his CIA days.
Unique VC Focus on European Defense
- Eric Schlesinger stands out by investing in European defense tech, an uncommon focus for American VCs.
- He identified a critical shift where private sector plays a growing role in defense competition beyond government.
Cultural Resistance in European Defense Investing
- Defense investing in Europe faces cultural resistance and is often seen as taboo or uncouth.
- Many European founders avoid building defense companies due to this hesitance.