Bridging Innovation and Defense to Equip Tomorrow’s Warfighter
Welcome to the Institute for Defense Innovation, where we break down barriers between the tech industry and the defense sector. Our mission is to create dynamic conferences that foster real conversations between military leaders, innovators, and tech companies—helping to ensure the Warfighter is prepared for the rapidly evolving technological threats of today and tomorrow.
We understand the challenges of adopting and fielding defense innovation at scale
And we’re here to bridge that gap. By facilitating open, actionable dialogue, we aim to drive collaboration that brings cutting-edge technologies to the defense sector, keeping the Warfighter’s requirements at the heart of everything we do.
About Institute for Defense Innovation
Our mission is simple: to break down the barriers between tech innovators and the defense sector, facilitating meaningful conversations and partnerships that drive real solutions. We believe that the future of defense lies in embracing cutting-edge technologies and fostering a spirit of innovation that prioritizes the warfighter’s needs.
In a landscape where defense conferences are often rigid and inaccessible to emerging tech companies, we offer something different. Our focus is opening the door to new players in the technology space—those who are developing the AI, cybersecurity, and advanced systems that will shape the future of warfare. We create opportunities for startups to engage directly with military leaders and DoD decision-makers, helping them navigate the complexities of working with the government.
We believe that by fostering an open dialogue between innovators and the military, we can better equip our defense forces to face the technological adversarial threats of tomorrow.
We envision a defense ecosystem where technology flows seamlessly from innovators to the battlefield. Our goal is to empower the next generation of tech companies and defense leaders to work together, creating a more agile, prepared, and secure future for the warfighter.
Upcoming Event
Washington D.C., United States
Emerging Technologies for Defense Innovation
Join us
At the forefront of defense innovation. Let’s build the future, where technology meets mission readiness
IDI for DoD Entities
IDI conducts rigorous research with military stakeholders to ensure that our conferences reflect operational requirements and bring value to the defense community.
To Speak at our conference
IDI for Industry
Through unparalleled networking and thought leadership opportunities, IDI supports leading industry in working collaboratively with the US DoD and international partners.
To Get Involved
IDI for Academia
As a credible partner for the defense community, IDI works closely with academia to produce compelling articles, reports, and interviews.
To Contribute or get Published
Tech-Driven Panels
Engage with industry experts and innovators leading the charge in defense technology, from AI and cybersecurity to advanced military systems.
Startup & DoD Synergy
We focus on connecting tech companies, startups, and government entities, helping to navigate the complexities of entering the defense market.
Real Conversations
Our events are designed to break through the rigid structures that often separate innovation from the military, creating open dialogue that directly addresses the needs of the Warfighter.
Focused Tracks
Explore specialized sessions on pressing issues, such as technological adversarial threats, defense innovation, and operational readiness.
Founders
Our Team
Meet the visionaries behind our mission.
Keith Barthelot
Co-Founder
Co-founder of the Institute for Defense Innovation, has over a decade of experience in sales, business development, and strategic planning within the defense and aerospace industries. He has successfully launched numerous defense and national security conferences, connecting tech companies with military and government leaders. Keith’s passion for technology and commitment to the warfighter drives his mission to bridge the gap between innovators and the defense sector, ensuring that cutting-edge solutions address the evolving adversarial threats faced by our armed forces
Linda Lastovych
Co-Founder
With over eight years of experience in the defense industry, Linda has spearheaded over 50 high-profile defense conferences for the US DoD, NATO and international partners. Linda’s vision for the Institute is driven by a commitment to advancing defense modernization, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and ensuring that the most innovative solutions are delivered to the Warfighter.
MA: International Affairs and Cybersecurity - King’s College London
BA: Politics and International Relations - Royal Holloway University of London
Advisory
Our Team
Lieutenant General (Ret’d) Michael Groen
Former Director of the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, US Department of Defense
Lieutenant General (Ret’d) Raymond Palumbo
Former Director for Defense Intelligence, US Department of Defense
