Interested in Deep Tech, Defense Tech, and Venture?

VC Backed Deep and Defense Tech Founders

I had the opportunity to catch up with colleagues and friends at the GuideWell Innovation Center for a timely conversation on the future of Deep Tech and Defense Tech in Florida. Leaders across government, investment, and innovation came together to explore where momentum is building—and where opportunity is accelerating.

It’s encouraging to see both the depth of discussion and the growing interest in this space from venture investors. From angel networks and venture firms to innovation platforms and regional ecosystem builders, Florida is increasingly aligning around what Deep Tech and Defense Tech can mean for the state.

Panel: Leslie, Paul, and Nick Hackard (SpaceWERX)
Panelists Leslie Babich (SOFWERX), Paul Sohl (Florida High Tech Corridor), and Nick Hackard (SpaceWERX) share insights on defense innovation, commercialization, and Florida’s growing Deep Tech ecosystem.

So what does Deep Tech and Defense Tech mean for Florida?

It means economic development grounded in advanced capabilities.
It means investment aligned with long-term, mission-driven innovation.
It means stronger bridges between research, commercialization, national security, and workforce development.

At Spark Growth, we see this as an ecosystem moment—where cross-sector collaboration, smart capital, and strategic alignment can position Florida as a serious player in the future of Deep Tech and Defense innovation.