Take a deep dive into tech

Shift's Defense Ventures Program

Learn from leading venture capital firms and technology companies during an eight-week immersion program designed for the DoD’s aspiring innovators. Broaden your career and bring thoughtful insights back to the DoD!

Application deadline for remaining 2021 sessions is 6/30/21

Session Three | Aug. 23 – Oct. 15
One cohort focused on VC, one on AI/cyber

Session Four | Oct. 4 – Dec. 3
Two cohorts focused on VC, one on cyber

Defense Ventures Program
Host Companies

Shift partners with leading venture capital firms and technology companies to host Fellows during each cohort. Each Fellow is strategically paired with their host organization using an adaptation of Shift’s proprietary matching technology.

Defense Ventures Program

Take a deep dive into tech

Bring the latest technology trends and innovation back to the Department of Defense after completing your fellowship with the Defense Ventures Program.

Expand your network and build valuable connections

Connect with a group of emerging leaders around the country as you rapidly grow your career.

Gain firsthand experience from industry experts

Learn from some of the brightest minds in tech during an 8-week deep dive in your chosen industry.

Solve real-world problems

Create real solutions to the world’s toughest problems using innovative methods and modern technology.

Open to all components of the DoD

The fellowship is open to all components of the Department of Defense and selection is determined by experience.

Helpful resources

Catch up with the latest Defense Ventures news

Defense Ventures Program

Hear what alumni have to say

Software & Data

Are you skilled at building software or working with data? Eager to dig into the product life cycle and identify where you can best contribute? Advance your career through interactions with industry experts, hands-on exercises with your peers, and connection to Shift’s hiring partners.

Apply Now
Sales & Customer Ops

Explore how to frame your military experience in a way that resonates with sales and customer success recruiters and why you are a great fit for these careers. Understand the customer lifecycle from prospecting to account management and identify where you best fit.

Apply Now
Navigating Next

In a moment of career change but not quite sure what’s next? Explore your interests, discover your professional goals, and learn the tools you’ll need to take your next career steps.

Apply Now
Project & Program Management

Learn how to transform your previously structured military approach into new project management roles. Gain insight from other veterans who have found success and translate your experiences to stand out as a high-potential candidate.

Apply Now

What to expect from your
8-week fellowship

  • Plan for three hours of virtual group meetings and five hours of self-paced work per week. The more you give, the more you grow.
  • Join a cohort of like-minded peers in your target industry and benefit from a powerful support network as you expand your career.
  • Develop interview-ready skills while gaining exclusive industry knowledge. Our curriculum is designed to help you rapidly succeed.
  • Build your resume, own your story, and learn from inside experts. Stand out with confidence as you begin the job application process.
  • Complete a Career Accelerator to fast-track your job search and guarantee your member profile is highlighted to Shift hiring partners.
  • Commit to professional growth, peer support, and mentoring the next generation of veterans when you find success in your new career.
Air Force Ventures Fellowship

Hear what past
Fellows have
to say

The AFVentures Fellowship program connects the best and brightest from the United States Air Force with Silicon Valley’s leading venture capital firms and technology startups.

Learn more about the AFVentures Fellowship

Common Questions

Still have questions about Defense Ventures? See more FAQs here.
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