Angel One venture fund plans to invest in six deftech startups this year. Which technologies is it interested in

In 2026, the Ukrainian venture fund Angel One plans to invest $3 million in startups. The fund expects to add 12 projects to its portfolio — six civilian and six defence-focused. Defender Media spoke with Valeriia Fadieienko, Principal at Angel One, about the defence tech areas that interest the fund.

“Fixed-wing drones are among our interests”

Since 2021, Angel One has invested approximately $4 million in startups. The funds have been allocated across 17 startups, 10 of which are deftech companies.

The fund recently formed a second fund worth approximately $3 million. Angel One says that the money for the second fund was raised from seven investors. The entire accumulated amount is planned to be distributed during 2026.

Fadieienko clarifies that the fund’s team has no intention of splitting the capital equally between civilian and defence projects. “The focus may shift slightly. The main objective is to properly diversify investments.”

The average cheque from Angel One is $150,000–200,000. Fadieienko adds that for a promising technology, the sum may be higher, though not significantly so. According to her, the fund’s team is currently seeking compelling technologies and products that address the military’s current needs.

“We have always been interested in ‘ wings’, everything related to deep or middle strike, and to artificial intelligence. UGV is not our focus,” the principal outlines.

Among Angel One’s public investments:

• Norda Dynamics, which develops autonomous drone technologies;
• Frontline – a developer of drones and robotic turrets;
• Swarmer – drone swarm technology;
• Mantis Analytics – an AI platform enabling real-time management of physical and informational risks;
• Buntar Aerospace – drones and software for reconnaissance.

The fund is also considering follow-on investments in portfolio companies in subsequent rounds.

Selection criteria and how to apply

Regarding civilian companies, this year’s fund will focus on seed-stage startups. To qualify, teams must demonstrate early revenue or proof of demand. The same criteria do not apply to deftech decisions, which will depend on how interesting and useful the teams’ products are.

A positive response from the military is one of the key selection criteria. It is also important that the startup communicates with its users and understands their needs. Previously, the fund already invested in teams without sales, provided their product had already been tested under combat conditions. Applications can be submitted via the fund’s website or through its social media pages.