Managing Director Raj Shah is leaving the Defense Innovation Unit Experimental to return to the private sector, according to FCW.
Shah has been with DIUx since 2016, expanding the office from a single outpost to an effort with offices in Boston and Austin. DIUx accelerates commercial innovation for national defense by providing non-dilutive capital. It’s currently focused on space, artificial intelligence and countering biological threats, and has awarded more than $100 million to 45 pilot projects. The Pentagon is seeking $71 million for DIUx in 2019.
Two Silicon Valley sources told FCW that Shah’s departure was expected and that the office is searching for a new managing director. In the meantime, Navy Capt. Sean Heritage, the DIUx military deputy, is serving as acting managing director .