America's Frontier Fund (AFF)

America’s Frontier Fund (AFF) is a nonprofit venture capital fund founded in 2021 by prominent figures such as former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel. The fund focuses on deep-tech investments crucial to the United States' long-term economic competitiveness and national security. Its primary areas of investment include microelectronics, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, quantum sciences, 5G/6G communications, new energy systems, and synthetic biology. AFF's mission is to support the development of critical technologies by investing in early-stage companies and fostering innovation ecosystems. They aim to revitalize U.S. manufacturing and technology leadership, especially in response to global competition, notably from China. The fund also plans to create a network of venture studios across the U.S., starting with Roadrunner Studios in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to commercialize cutting-edge R&D from national labs and universities. AFF operates from Arlington, Virginia, and has a significant commitment from the New Mexico State Investment Council, reflecting its strong regional focus and support. The leadership team includes Gilman Louie, CEO and co-founder, known for his previous role at In-Q-Tel, and Jordan Blashek, president and COO, who has extensive experience in national security and tech investment. AFF emphasizes a strategic approach, leveraging expertise from investors, scientists, technologists, and policy experts to drive innovation and economic growth​.