Harpoon Ventures

Harpoon Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to backing audacious founders who are shaping the next era of American innovation. The firm focuses its investments on mission-critical capabilities across artificial intelligence (AI), deep technology, software infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Harpoon Ventures emphasizes supporting companies that develop dual-use technologies, meaning commercial products with significant applications for both the private sector and federal agencies, particularly within the defense ecosystem.

Founded in 2018 by Larsen Jensen, a two-time Olympic medalist and former Navy SEAL, Harpoon Ventures was established on the belief that technology will play a defining role in geopolitics. The firm quickly gained support from notable early backers such as a16z and Lightspeed, and today is anchored by leading national pensions and endowments, including a first responder pension fund. Harpoon Ventures distinguishes itself by working closely with its portfolio companies, assisting them in securing over $1 billion in U.S. government contracts, ranging from non-dilutive grants to substantial programs of record.

Harpoon Ventures manages $300 million in assets and has invested in a diverse portfolio of companies. Notable investments include Solugen, which is reimagining the chemicals industry; Astranis, focused on dedicated connectivity anywhere; Aalo Atomics, working on clean energy solutions; MatX, developing high-throughput chips for large language models; Genesis Molecular AI, an AI operating system for drug discovery; Starcloud, building data centers in space; and Northwood, providing ground infrastructure for space missions. The firm also supports companies like n8n for secure workflow automation and Encord for AI data development.

The team at Harpoon Ventures brings a unique blend of experience, combining venture capital expertise with backgrounds in military service and deep technical knowledge. Larsen Jensen, the Founder and General Partner, leverages his experience as a Navy SEAL and Olympic athlete, along with his venture experience from Andreessen Horowitz and Lightspeed. Managing Partner Jeff Torrance oversees strategic initiatives and financial operations, while other investors like Jeremy Stein specialize in guiding portfolio companies through dual-use commercialization and integration with federal agencies, particularly the Department of Defense. This collective expertise provides a tactical advantage to their portfolio companies, helping them navigate complex markets and government pathways.