17Tech and Defence Builder Partner to Accelerate Defense Innovation

Finnish defense technology accelerator and venture capital firm 17Tech Oy has announced a strategic partnership with Defence Builder, a Ukrainian accelerator for defense tech startups.

The collaboration is designed to bolster the defense technology innovation ecosystems of both Finland and Ukraine. It seeks to combine Ukraine's wartime ingenuity and battlefield experience with Finland's advanced defense systems and resilience expertise. Startups from both programs will gain access to a combined network of resources, expertise, and validation pathways, extending from real battlefield environments to NATO-aligned defense forces.

17Tech brings to the partnership extensive experience in cooperating with defense forces from multiple countries, international business, and technology development capabilities. The company has managed accelerators across 12 countries and provides startups with access to international prime contractors and a well-developed investor network.

Defence Builder contributes top-tier expertise and access to up-to-date battlefield feedback, enabling real-world testing in Ukraine. The Ukrainian accelerator has already supported 15 startups across two batches, with six having been battlefield-tested or deployed. The partnership will involve joint events and provide startups with access to networks of investors and relevant stakeholders, including local defense forces and NATO.

Both parties will share learnings from their respective ecosystems to improve accelerator models and startup support mechanisms. Defence Builder will assist participating startups in understanding and validating end-user needs from defense forces, while 17Tech will focus on validating needs within the Finnish Defense Forces and NATO forces. Defence Builder will also enable limited field testing and operational evaluation in real battlefield environments.