The impact investors going into defence tech (and those staying out of it)
11 apr. 2025
10:06
Everyone’s talking about defence tech – and a growing number of impact investors are now eyeing technologies with military applications.
So what does this shift mean for the impact investment landscape? And how are investors weighing up the ethical and reputational concerns that come with operating close to the ‘arms trade’?
Impact Loop has spoken to several investors to find out.
So what does this shift mean for the impact investment landscape? And how are investors weighing up the ethical and reputational concerns that come with operating close to the ‘arms trade’?
Impact Loop has spoken to several investors to find out.
The debate over whether impact and other VCs should enter the defence space encompasses a lot of elements. On the one hand, there are concerns over the ethics of investing in companies and funds involved in what is perceived as the 'arms trade.'
On the other hand, there are myriad ‘dual-use’ technologies and projects that, while they may benefit Europe’s defence footing, can also be used for civil and environmental benefit.