MIT’s Breakthrough Formula for Startup Success with Gene Keselman

Balancing defense and commercial markets can be daunting, but today’s guest shares how the dual-use readiness model makes it easier for startups to thrive in both worlds.

In this week’s episode, Ryan Connell speaks with Gene Keselman, Director of Mission Innovation Experimentation at MIT. 

Gene shares how creating a shared language between startups and defense organizations, along with integrating AI tools into readiness models, can turn complex systems into practicable strategies.

You’ll also hear about MIT’s Pro Ventures studio, the challenges startups face in these dual-use markets and why building a stronger global defense ecosystem is more critical than ever.

Tune in to learn how MIT is shaping the future of defense innovation.

Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways:

(00:00) Introduction 

(00:49) Meet Gene Keselman and his work at MIT

(06:01) Defining the dual-use readiness model 

(08:47) The importance of shared language in defense startups

(13:00) AI integration into readiness models

(16:04) Commercial vs. DoD-focused tech companies

(18:53) Challenges of dual-use for startups

(23:49) Dual-use as a strategy, not a category

(25:54) The role of non-dilutive funding

(28:18) MIT’s Proto Ventures studio

(34:29) Strengthening global security

Additional Resources:

👉Follow Ryan Connell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-connell-8413a03a/

👉Learn, acquire, and deliver tech on Tradewinds here: https://www.tradewindai.com/

👉Visit CDAO for updates: https://www.ai.mil/

👉Follow us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6MLAqMOVnLWbmB5yZbZ9lC

👉Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DefenseMavericks

Connect with today’s guest:

💥Follow Gene Keselman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genekeselman/

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Defense Mavericks is a podcast that uncovers the untapped potential of AI within the federal government through authentic and disruptive conversations with our nation’s brightest minds.

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