In-Q-Tel (IQT) is a not-for-profit venture capital firm established in 1999 by the CIA (originally called Peleus and In-Q-It) to rapidly tap into cutting-edge technology emerging from the private sector. While funded by the CIA and designed to support U.S. intelligence needs, IQT operates as a legally independent entity dedicated to investing in firms that can enhance the capabilities of agencies like the CIA, DIA, FBI, NSA, NGA, and others, including international partners such as the UK and Australia. Its goal is not primarily financial returns, but to identify and integrate advanced technologies—ranging from AI, biotech, and cybersecurity to space systems—into national security infrastructure, effectively bridging the gap between government intelligence demands and Silicon Valley innovation.

IQT has played a pivotal role in launching and supporting high‑impact companies. For example, it provided early funding and strategic access for Palantir, helping the company connect directly with intelligence analysts and refine its data‑mining tools for real‑world use. Over the years, IQT has reviewed thousands of business plans, made hundreds of investments (some publicly disclosed, many not), and built a global presence with offices in Menlo Park, Cambridge, London, Munich, Singapore, and Sydney. Though it doesn’t prioritize profit—reportedly operating at losses while being heavily funded by CIA budget allocations—it has amassed over $1 billion in assets and remains one of the most influential players in defense tech venture capital.











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source:

https://theintercept.com/2022/05/05/cia-venture-capital-inqtel-spac/