WASHINGTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Anzu Partners, an investment firm delivering capital and strategic support to breakthrough technology companies, and J.A. Green & Company, a premier boutique and award-winning government relations and lobbying firm, announced the appointments of James “Hondo” Geurts and General Mike Murray as venture partners for the Anzu-Green Critical Technologies Fund.
Anzu-Green Critical Technologies Fund seeks to strengthen the U.S. national security complex by investing in companies innovating critical technologies, including advanced materials, artificial intelligence, quantum science, renewable energy, and beyond. This venture fund will be built on a powerful partnership, leveraging Anzu Partners’ technical diligence experience and extensive portfolio support system for early-stage companies, with J.A. Green’s deep insight and expertise within the U.S. government, specifically the Department of Defense.
James Geurts, known to most as Hondo, has over three decades of leadership in the national security sector, including service as the Under Secretary of the Navy, the Department’s number two civilian with responsibility for the effective global business operations of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps team. From 2017 until 2021, after his Presidential Appointment and unanimous Senate confirmation, he served as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development and Acquisition. As the Department of the Navy’s most senior acquisition official, he was responsible for ensuring the effective procurement and sustainment of platforms, systems, technologies, and services to enhance the capabilities and readiness of Sailors and Marines serving around the globe. Since his retirement from government, Geurts has worked extensively to improve the Nation’s defense industrial base, serving on several commissions, study efforts, and more. He mentors public and private sector teams on scaling, agility, innovation, teamwork, talent development, and leadership.
“I believe deeply in the Anzu-Green mission to support companies serving the large and growing market for critical technologies with national security ties,” said Geurts. “I look forward to supporting the growth of promising startups that can help strengthen our industrial base.”
General Mike Murray served in leadership roles with command positions and various staff assignments at the highest levels of the Army over the course of his 40 years of service. In 2018, he became the first Commanding General of United States Army Futures Command, a new four-star Army Command headquartered in Austin, Texas. Among his numerous awards and decorations are the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, the Ranger Tab, the Distinguished Service Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, and 5 Bronze Stars. He served a total of 4 combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“The U.S. Department of Defense is increasingly focused on early-stage tech companies that can help develop new, innovative systems to build advantages for our national defense,” said General Murray. “I am thrilled to work with the Anzu-Green team to help startups navigate the challenging process of securing government contracts and bring their technology to market.”
“Both Gertz and General Murray have decorated military careers and leadership experience in the realm of homeland security that has helped them to identify and incubate startups that can succeed in the defense space,” said Jeff Green, co-managing partner of Anzu-Green Critical Technologies Fund. “We are thrilled to have them join the leadership team for the Anzu-Green Critical Technologies Fund. We have an opportunity to help fill the gap in the market for critical technology startups that have gained some traction within the DoD but need support to commercialize, grow, and realize their greatest potential.”
About Anzu Partners
Anzu Partners is an investment firm that focuses on clean tech, industrial and life science technology companies with the potential to transform their industries. Anzu works with entrepreneurs to develop and commercialize technological innovations by providing capital alongside deep expertise in business development, market positioning, global connectivity, and operations. For more information, please visit anzupartners.com.
About J.A. Green & Company
J. A. Green & Co. Is a leading defense lobbying firm in Washington D.C. that has been recognized by Bloomberg and The Hill for exceptional service. Founded by Mr. Jeff Green, the firm has been helping businesses navigate the complexities of government since 2007. Mr. Green is a retired Air Force Colonel and former counsel for the House Armed Services Committee. For more information, please visit https://www.jagreenandco.com/.
