Cristobal Alonso is Managing Director at Wolver Ventures, where he oversees several VC funds and programs focusing on Cybersecurity, Defense Tech, and Dual-Use technologies across the EU. He is also a General Partner in multiple early-stage regional VC funds in Lithuania and Romania.
Previously, he served as the Global CEO and El PatrΓ³n of Startup Wise Guys for a decade, investing in over 450 early-stage startups across SaaS, Sustainability, XR, Cybersecurity, and Fintech sectors. He also led numerous corporate innovation initiatives in both public and private sectors.
Ukraine is no longer just a battlefield β it is becoming the worldβs fastest-growing defense innovation lab. New technologies are being forged and tested under real combat conditions, creating a unique environment where startups turn into globally relevant companies at record speed. This panel will uncover why the next generation of defense and dual-use unicorns may be born in Ukraine, and why waiting means missing out. The discussion will cut through the hype and focus on real opportunities, risks, and returns. Itβs not about βifβ to invest in Ukraineβs defense tech β itβs about βhow fastβ you can get in.
View moreThis meetup explores how true innovation emerges at the intersection of three critical forces: cutting-edge technology, forward-thinking education, and strategic investment. By bringing together leaders from different domains, the session will demonstrate how collaboration across these sectors accelerates breakthrough ideas and drives sustainable growth.
During the Meetup, speakers will:
Discuss funding mechanisms and publicβprivate partnerships that fuel scalable innovation.
Showcase real examples of how different domains can engage with each other and co-create thriving startup ecosystems.
Highlight models of knowledge transfer and talent development that turn academic research into market-ready products.
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