Organization · Micro VC

Forward Deployed VC

Forward Deployed Venture Capital (FDVC) is an early-stage venture capital firm based in San Jose, California, focusing on mission-critical technology sectors such as defense, energy, and artificial intelligence. Founded by Mark Scianna, the firm emphasizes a relationship-driven investment approach within its specialized domains.

Micro VCFunder

Official website

Overview

What Forward Deployed VC does

What Forward Deployed VC is

How it participates in the startup ecosystem

The current public profile supports funder capabilities. Each capability below is shown separately so organization identity and role-specific information do not get conflated.

Operational profile

Organization status and context

Organization status describes the entity itself. Funding and program availability appear within the relevant capability profile.

Operational status: Active
Organization type: Micro VC
Founded: Founded in 2022
Approximate age: About 4 years
Structured capabilities: Funder
Last reviewed: April 26, 2026

Official channels

Find Forward Deployed VC elsewhere

Open the official website or a supported primary organization account.

WebsiteOfficial channel

Capability profile

Forward Deployed VC as a funder

Official pitch route

Investment thesis

FDVC invests in mission-critical sectors and technologies, focusing on defense, energy, industrials, and AI. The firm believes many of these industries have yet to be transformed by modern software and engineering solutions.

Focus narrative

FDVC targets investments in sectors such as defense, energy, industrials, and artificial intelligence. The firm seeks to support companies that operate in mission-critical areas, emphasizing innovations that can significantly impact national security, critical infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing.

Value beyond capital

FDVC provides value to its portfolio companies through deep domain expertise and a strong network in defense and technology sectors. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach, leveraging Mark Scianna's background to embed technical talent close to customer challenges, ensuring that innovations are aligned with real-world needs.

Terms and economics

Typical check: $100,000–$5,000,000
Sweet spot: $1,500,000

Focus and fit

Stages: Seed · Series A
Sectors: Defence Tech Energy Industrial & Manufacturing Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity Logistics & Supply Chain Healthcare
Regions: United States

Availability

Currently deploying: Yes

Portfolio and track record

Recorded portfolio count: 20
Recorded notable exits: Oklo

Portfolio context

Notable portfolio companies include: Adyton: Mobile defense technology. AmpUp: Commercial electric vehicle management. Anduril: AI-powered defense solutions. Biobot: Wastewater epidemiology. Cape: Privacy-first mobile carrier. Castelion: Modern defense production. Chariot: Defense power solutions for military vehicles. Conductor AI: AI data compliance. Govly: Government contracting solutions. Method: Autonomous cyber defense. Oklo: Nuclear micro-reactors. Paladin: Drones as first responders. Rune Tech: AI-powered logistics. Turion Space: Space security solutions.

Connected ecosystem