Protego Ventures

Protego Ventures is an Israel-based venture capital firm dedicated to investing in early-growth companies that are developing next-generation defense technologies. The firm's mission is to support innovative companies and deliver significant returns for its investors, while simultaneously contributing to advancements in global defense and security. Protego Ventures focuses on addressing critical defense and security needs in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

Founded in 2024, Protego Ventures was co-founded by Lital Leshem and Lee Moser. Lital Leshem, a seasoned entrepreneur and defense expert, previously co-founded Carbyne, an emergency communications technology company that was acquired by Axon for $625 million in 2025. Lee Moser is an experienced fund manager and also serves as the Managing Partner of AnD Ventures. The firm was established to back a new generation of defense technology startups and connect them with international markets and strategic partners.

The firm strategically invests in key defense areas, including sensors, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), autonomous systems such as drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and cybersecurity. Notable companies in their portfolio include XTEND, which provides human-guided autonomous machine systems for tactical drones and robots, and Prisma Photonics, which transforms fiber optic cables into ultra-sensitive sensors for critical infrastructure monitoring. Protego Ventures aims to empower innovators to enhance defense capabilities and secure a safer future.

The Protego Ventures team comprises seasoned entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and defense experts. Key team members include Brigadier General (Res.) Dr. Ziv Avtalion as CTO, bringing expertise in digital transformation and defense technology, and Major General (Res.) Tal Kelman as Head of Strategy and Defense, with over 30 years of leadership in the IDF. Mandy Rotner serves as the Financial Advisor, and Perri Finkelstein is the Head of Business Development & Value Creation, leveraging extensive experience in strategic growth for startups.