Defense Innovation Fund

The Defense Innovation Fund is a specialized grant-making organization based in Round Rock, Texas, that provides non-dilutive capital to early-stage startups operating within the aerospace, defense, and security sectors. Backed by a total initial fund allocation of $250,000, the organization distributes competitive financial awards of up to $50,000 per selected company to accelerate their commercial growth. The program targets high-growth entrepreneurs at various revenue and funding stages, offering targeted capital to support critical startup lifecycle needs and incentivize companies to launch or expand their operations within the local Texas ecosystem. The initiative operates under the direct management of the Round Rock Chamber and its President and CEO, Jordan Robinson, who utilize independent industry experts to evaluate incoming applications on a strict case-by-case basis. The Defense Innovation Fund was founded in 2023 by the Round Rock Chamber.