Course Highlights

• Provides a framework for startups to access government funding and customers while maintaining commercial viability
• Equips government participants with insights into startup dynamics, venture capital, and incentive structures
• Features case studies, testimonials, and the Dual-Use Readiness Levels™ framework for navigating commercial and mission-driven markets
• Counts toward the Executive Certificate in Strategy and Innovation
• Confers a certificate of course completion from the MIT Sloan School of Management

As global challenges demand innovative solutions, the lines between commercial and government markets are increasingly blurred. Startups with dual-use strategies—balancing civilian and defense applications—are uniquely positioned to innovate and scale. Yet, navigating the complex ecosystems of government and commercial markets requires a distinct set of skills, cultural understanding, and strategic frameworks.

Taught by Fiona Murray and Gene Keselman, world-renown experts on this topic, Dual-Use Strategy for Startups and Government is designed to bridge the gap between these two worlds. Startups will learn how to unlock government funding, master procurement processes, and build capabilities that resonate with mission-driven markets. Government participants will gain an appreciation for startup culture, venture capital mechanics, and the commercial innovation landscape. By fostering a mutual understanding, this course accelerates collaboration and innovation across sectors.

A dual-use strategy is about making tradeoffs: which solution to build and for whom, how to test it, how to fund it, and how to deploy it. MIT’s Dual-Use Readiness Levels™ framework provides a structured approach for startups to evaluate their readiness across commercial, mission, and technological dimensions. This model fosters better communication between commercial and mission-driven sectors, helping participants assess opportunities, align strategies, and bridge critical gaps.

Through engaging lectures, real-world case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants will explore the nuances of dual-use strategies, including how to “speak mission” and translate milestones from one ecosystem to another. The course highlights the key differences in customer needs, funding structures, and technological expectations between commercial and defense markets. By mastering these distinctions, participants will leave with actionable strategies to thrive in both worlds.

Applying to the Course

We accept enrollments until the offering reaches capacity, at which point we will maintain a waitlist. Many of the courses fill up several weeks in advance, so we advise that you enroll as early as possible to secure your seat.

You can begin the application process by using the red "Enroll Now" bar at the bottom of the screen.

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Have Questions?

Contact Us if you would like to speak with a program director or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for answers to common questions about our courses.