Government venture capital: centralized or decentralized execution?

Abstract

This research project provides an initial assessment as to whether the government should maintain decentralized management of its venture capital (VC) initiatives. Previous research focused on the viability of using VC to supplement government RandD spending. In contrast, this research project specifically addresses whether the DoD should centralize or decentralize execution of VC. The researchers investigated current Government VC initiatives, interviewed subject matter experts in the VC industry, and assessed how well the Government VC initiatives are poised to fill the DoD's capability gaps as defined by the QDR. The researchers provide rationale for why VC is a relevant source for Government RandD using data from the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) and other literature. Ultimately, the research suggests that the Government should continue to foster decentralized VC execution with increased focus on technology transference.