In-Q-Tel
In-Q-Tel (IQT), formerly known as Peleus and then as In-Q-It, is an American non-profit venture capital firm based in Arlington, Virginia. Its primary mission is to invest in cutting-edge technologies to support the United States Intelligence Community.
Established in 1999, In-Q-Tel serves as a strategic investor, bridging the gap between the commercial technology sector and the specific needs of U.S. intelligence agencies. The firm identifies and funds companies developing innovative solutions in areas such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, advanced materials, and biotechnology.
In-Q-Tel does not seek to control the companies it invests in, but rather aims to provide the Intelligence Community with access to emerging technologies and expertise. It operates independently from the government, although it maintains close relationships with various intelligence agencies, including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).
The firm's investment strategy focuses on supporting the development and deployment of technologies that can enhance the capabilities of the Intelligence Community in areas such as information gathering, analysis, and operational effectiveness. In-Q-Tel plays a significant role in fostering innovation within the technology sector and facilitating the adoption of advanced technologies by the U.S. intelligence apparatus.