NATO Innovation Fund-backed 201 Ventures launches to advance freedom and autonomy in Europe

April 25, 2025

The NATO Innovation Fund has invested in 201 Ventures, a $22M first fund, managed by solo General Partner Eric Slesinger. 201 Ventures was founded with the mission to advance freedom and autonomy in Europe by backing founders building a range of solutions – from hypersonics to biosecurity, subsurface mapping, maritime sensing and Arctic autonomy.

“We are seeing a great increase in demand for – as well as spending in – defence, security and resilience technology. Eric’s experience in national security and investing, as well as his exposure to what governments need across the Alliance will play a critical role in building an ecosystem that boosts dual-use deep tech.”

Chris O’Connor

Partner, NATO Innovation Fund

Eric is a former CIA officer, currently based in Madrid. He is the founder of the European Defense Investor Network, with hundreds of participating investors, and organizer of the European Defense Tech Summit, which brings together Europe’s most prominent government officials, entrepreneurs, and investors.

201 Ventures’ portfolio includes Greece-based Delian Alliance Industries, Sweden-based Ionlace, Germany-based Deep Earth and UK-based Isembard, among others.