Forward Deployed VC

What is Forward Deployed VC?

Forward Deployed VC is an investment fund managed by General Partner Mark Scianna, focusing on mission-critical startups in sectors such as Defense, Energy, Industrials, and Artificial Intelligence.

With extensive experience as a forward deployed engineer at Palantir and a background in developing products that have significantly contributed to the company's multibillion-dollar revenue, Scianna applies his expertise to invest in groundbreaking technologies.

Forward Deployed VC operates with a clear investment thesis that revolves around backing companies with the potential to provide essential services and products, particularly those that address complex challenges in BioTech, HealthTech, Web Security, Medical Devices, Healthcare, and Mobility.

The fund's investments range from a minimum of $100,000 to a maximum of $5,000,000, with a sweet spot around $1,500,000, focusing on Seed and Series A stages.

Their portfolio includes a diverse array of innovative companies, from AI-powered defense and ultra-fast charging for batteries to EV charger management and mobile defense technology. Notably, their track record is significant, with a 12-year performance that places them in the top quartile, boasting a 39% IRR, 4.6x TVPI, and 2.9x DPI.

Mark Scianna's forward-thinking approach extends to his investment strategy, where he started by participating in Palantir's Series D round in 2010 and expanded to investing through Y Combinator Demo Days, culminating in the launch of FDVC Fund I in 2022. The firm's portfolio reflects a commitment to supporting companies that are not only at the edge of technological innovation but are also addressing crucial needs in various domains. The fund has been recognized as a top 50 emerging manager by Signature Block and was selected out of over 700 applicants by a renowned LP committee for the RAISE Global program.