A greater role for venture capital in defence and security also means a greater role for startups. Much of this conference is about startups. This panel features three seasoned experts who have lived and breathed the startup world for years. They’re champions of the sector, with a deep understanding of the potential impact of small, private companies. This session explores the unique aspects of startups—how they innovate, handle risk, and accelerate technology development—and explores how they can play a pivotal role in safeguarding our democracies.