Deep Tech Connections (DTC) October 2025 Newsletter
Sharing updates, highlights, and opportunities from our deep tech community, where entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, corporate innovators, and government professionals come together.
✨ A note from DTC!
There’s a certain kind of energy that only happens when smart, mission-driven people come together in the same room, and last Friday’s breakfast was exactly that.
From national security awareness to emerging VC trends and founder strategies, our September session brought together a mix of insights that felt both urgent and timeless. What struck me most was how naturally conversations unfolded between founders and investors, between newcomers and regulars, and even between local innovators and our international guests.
If you weren’t able to join us, I hope this recap gives you a glimpse of the morning and maybe even sparks a few new ideas.
Looking forward to seeing you at the next one!
🎤 Highlights from Our September Breakfast
Matthew Reynolds | Special Agent, FBI, Counterintelligence Division
Matt shared a behind-the-scenes look at the FBI’s work around economic espionage and trade secret theft—especially in emerging tech sectors like AI and semiconductors. His message was clear: even early-stage startups can (and should) take steps to protect their IP.
From insider threat training to clean-device travel protocols, his insights were both practical and eye-opening. He also invited interested founders to participate in the MITRE FAST Study. (See below for the details)
“Even small companies should think early about building a culture of security. Start with awareness of what’s sensitive, and who has access?”
Tori Orr | Investor | NGP Capital
Tori walked us through NGP Capital’s “Great Convergence” thesis, explaining how advances in AI, robotics, sensors, and edge infrastructure are unlocking new opportunities across manufacturing, logistics, energy, and more.
She emphasized the firm’s strong interest in industrial automation, OT cybersecurity, and robotics, and encouraged founders to reach out—especially those beyond the Bay Area.
“We’re backing the next generation of intelligent systems. If you’re solving a hard infrastructure or edge problem, we want to talk.”
LouAnn Conner | CEO | SagaciousThink
LouAnn challenged the room to reframe how we think about governance, not as a checkbox, but as a strategic lever. She spoke about how founders can build boards that boost credibility with investors, expand leadership capabilities, and sharpen decision-making.
“Independent board members aren’t just advisors, they’re confidence builders who can open doors and ask the hard questions.”
Don’t miss the next event!
Join us on October 31st for our next Deep Tech Connections breakfast in Palo Alto!
🗓️ Join Us for Our October Networking Breakfast
Deep Tech Connections’ Networking Breakfast
Date: Friday, October 31st
Time: 8:30 - 10:30 AM PST
Make sure to register here! Come start your morning with coffee, conversation, and some of the brightest minds in deep tech. Whether you're a founder, investor, researcher, or just curious about what's next, this is a chance to connect in a relaxed setting and explore new ideas together.
We’d love to see you there!
Opportunity for Small & Mid-Sized Companies: Help Inform DoD Policy with MITRE’s FAST Study
MITRE (https://www.mitre.org/) is conducting the FAST Study, focused on capturing the real challenges small- and mid-sized companies face when working with the Department of Defense. The findings will inform recommendations to Congress, making this a rare opportunity for industry voices to help shape future contracting and security processes.
MITRE will be in the Bay Area on October 6th to conduct company interviews at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP’s Palo Alto office. If your company would like to participate, please reach out at info@deeptechconnections.com
🤝 Our Distinguished Partners
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Pillsbury is one of the world’s foremost law firms, advising Technology companies and their investors, as well as clients in the Energy & Infrastructure, Financial, Life Sciences & Digital Health, Real Estate & Construction, and other dynamic industries.
Five Star Bank - California
Five Star Bank is a reputable community bank that has helped businesses start up, grow, and succeed through relationship-based banking and best-in-class treasury solutions.
💫 For partnership questions, please email info@deeptechconnections.com.
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