ZEA
Venture capitalChicago · 2 people tracked
Investment thesis
ZEA invests in dual-use technology companies developing mission-critical innovations across artificial intelligence, robotics, space, manufacturing, and microelectronics. The firm targets companies with 20-1,000 employees that prioritize security, scalability, and mission-driven growth. ZEA provides comprehensive support including capital deployment, board representation, regulatory navigation, government connections, and strategic guidance to help founders bridge defense and commercial markets.
Source: firm website, verified Jul 21, 2026.
Team · 2 people
from the firm's websiteVenture capital and aerospace & defense expert with experience bridging Silicon Valley and the Pentagon. Brings expertise in defense acquisition and national security. U.S. Navy veteran and co-founder of ZEA and SI2 Healthcare.
Venture capital and aerospace & defense specialist with expertise in defense acquisition and national security policy. U.S. Navy veteran and co-founder of ZEA and SI2 Healthcare.
What they invest in
from 10 of 11 portfolio companiesDeep Tech ×5Defense Tech ×5AI & Machine Learning ×4Hardware ×3Advanced Manufacturing ×2Space Tech ×2Cybersecurity ×1Developer Tools ×1
HQs:United States×4
Investments · 11 tracked
founders shown can be your intro pathAmbit develops post-quantum VPN security software, emphasizing formal verification and ease of installation for enterprise security teams.
Cybersecurity
Cachai develops Altiro, a software layer that converts hub-dependent autonomous systems into consensus-based distributed networks for mission-critical applications. The software enables multi-device coordination without single points of failure, allowing swarms of units to collectively execute high-level missions.
AI & Machine LearningDefense TechDeveloper Tools
Deepnight develops night vision technology using electro-optical cameras and deep neural networks to enable low-light imaging on moonless nights, targeting applications including counter-UAS systems for defense installations.
AI & Machine LearningDeep TechDefense Tech
EchoMAV develops solutions for unmanned systems, serving government agencies and private manufacturers with expertise in unmanned vehicle technology.
Defense TechHardwareRoboticsLubbock, US
Ecoatoms develops technologies for manufacturing and research in microgravity environments, enabling scalable production and R&D in orbital space. The company serves space technology developers and researchers seeking to expand in-space capabilities.
Advanced ManufacturingDeep TechHardwareSpace Tech
Brings hardware systems to life by leveraging embodied machine learning for attack and defense autonomy
Falcomm is a fabless semiconductor company that designs and manufactures power amplifier components for satellite communications, telecom, defense, and consumer markets. The company specializes in radio frequency (RF) integrated circuits with patented Dual-Drive technology that delivers higher efficiency, greater output power, and reduced heat dissipation.
Deep TechDefense TechSemiconductors<UNKNOWN>, US
F-ADA develops software for unmanned systems that enables rapid retraining and target identification with minimal compute requirements and no internet connectivity. The software is designed for military applications and can be integrated at various points in existing supply chains.
AI & Machine LearningDefense Tech
VectorWave enables dynamic spectrum sharing by processing raw wireless signals in real-time to allow multiple systems to coexist and prioritize frequencies efficiently rather than relying on fixed spectrum allocations. The technology addresses spectrum management for telecommunications and wireless communication infrastructure.
Deep Tech
Hybron manufactures composites using proprietary technology, positioning itself as a U.S.-based alternative to overseas production. The company serves customers in industries requiring composite materials.
Advanced ManufacturingNew Materials
Magma Space builds a precision operations platform for space missions, serving spacecraft operators and commercial space ventures.
AI & Machine LearningDeep TechHardwareSpace TechWashington, US
Frequently asked questions
- What sectors does ZEA focus on?
- ZEA focuses on Advanced Manufacturing, AI & Machine Learning, Deep Tech, Defense Tech, Robotics, Semiconductors, Space Tech.
- Where is ZEA located?
- ZEA is headquartered in Chicago, US.
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