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The Aid Market Podcast

The Aid Market Podcast

Written by: Mike Shanley
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 Welcome to The Aid Market Podcast, where international development and humanitarian aid organizations connect to learn about funding trends and market insight. Join us as we hear from foreign aid leaders with USAID and other large donors, with updates and insight on their work. We explore topics including localization, artificial intelligence, proposal and grant funding best practices, and analyze data sources like the USAID Business Forecast. The Aid Market podcast is your comprehensive guide to positioning your organization for success and securing vital funding from USAID and other foreign aid donors. Each episode features in-depth conversations with esteemed guests, including current and former Senior USAID officials, executives from prominent foreign aid partner organizations, and influential thought leaders in the field. Together, we delve into the pressing issues of international development and humanitarian aid, shedding light on the latest trends, strategies, and best practices. Stay informed and gain a competitive edge as we explore key topics such as funding strategies, donor priorities, partnership opportunities, and effective approaches to navigating the complex aid landscape. Our podcast equips you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions and unlock new avenues for funding. The Aid Market Podcast is your trusted and comprehensive source for actionable insights and expert advice. Tune in now and join us on this journey to maximize your organization's potential and make a lasting impact on the global stage. ABOUT THE HOST: The podcast is hosted by Mike Shanley, Founder and CEO of Konektid International and AidKonekt Data, the leading USAID partner support firms that help clients to grow their USAID funding portfolios. Mike has nearly two decades of experience in working with USAID projects and funding opportunities. His USAID funding expertise has been recognized by the largest aid and development associations, partners, and conferences, including by USAID, Devex, British Expertise International, AidEx, and by the Society for International Development-US where he also serves as Board Member. Konektid International Konektid has a decade of experience supporting new and established USAID partners to accelerate and streamline their business development work. Konektid's global team of seasoned USAID market specialists can provide surge support for your USAID proposal development, design and support your USAID market entry or growth strategy, and support other USAID partnering needs to help your team better work with USAID. AidKonekt Data AidKonekt is the trusted funding intel software for USAID partners. AidKonekt allows partners to easily monitor funding changes and track their pipeline. It also streamlines USAID market intel research, capture reports, competitor insight, and much more. Accelerate your USAID partnering with AidKonekt today! Websites: Konektid International: www.konektid.com AidKonekt Data: https://www.aidkonekt.com/usaid-biz-dev Connect with Mike Shanley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/konektid-usaid-specialists/ The Aid Market Podcast, foreign aid, funding trends, market dynamics, USAID, foreign aid donors, international development, humanitarian aid, funding strategies, donor priorities, partnership opportunities, aid landscape, podcast, actionable insights, expert advice, maximize organization's potential, global stage2023 Economics Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Ep 80: Lee Rosen, CEO, ThinkOrbital - GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley

    Ep 80: Lee Rosen, CEO, ThinkOrbital - GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley
    Apr 3 2026
    How to Build Big Infrastructure in Space: Insights from Lee Rosen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinkorbital Website: https://thinkorbital.com/ Email: marketing@thinkorbital.com Building infrastructure in space presents unique challenges, but it's essential for the future of the new space economy. In this post, we'll explore insights from Lee Rosen, co-founder and CEO of Think Orbital, as he discusses his journey from the U.S. Air Force to SpaceX, and how those experiences shaped his vision for creating infrastructure in outer space. About Lee Rosen Lee Rosen is the co-founder and CEO of Think Orbital, with an impressive background in the aerospace industry, including 23 years of service in the United States Air Force as an engineer and space operator. He played key roles at SpaceX, helping to establish their launch capabilities and innovate in the field of space technology. The Decision to Leave the Air Force Lee's journey began with a long career in the military, culminating in a pivotal moment when he escorted President Obama during a visit to SpaceX. This experience not only introduced him to Elon Musk but also opened his eyes to the potential of commercial space capabilities. He realized that the landscape was changing, and it was an opportune time to take risks and explore new avenues in the aerospace sector. Key Insights from Lee's Experience *Meeting Elon Musk:* Lee's first encounter with Musk was eye-opening. Musk's vision and unconventional thinking challenged the norms of the aerospace industry. Lee was particularly struck by Musk's questions regarding launch turnaround times and reusability, which led to revolutionary changes in space flight. The Evolution of the Space Market The space market has evolved dramatically since Lee's time at SpaceX. In the past, the U.S. relied heavily on foreign partnerships for space capabilities. Today, thanks to companies like SpaceX, launching satellites has become more accessible and affordable. Lee emphasizes that this change has spurred innovation and allowed new players, like Think Orbital, to emerge in the space industry. The Importance of Infrastructure *Building Larger Structures:* Think Orbital focuses on developing the tools necessary to construct larger infrastructure in space. This includes creating technologies like in-space welding capabilities, which are essential for assembling larger structures beyond Earth. Think Orbital's Mission Think Orbital was founded to address the challenges of building infrastructure in space. Their mission is to create tools and technologies that allow for larger construction projects in outer space. Lee discusses their focus on in-space welding technology, which is designed to handle the unique conditions of space, including vacuum environments. Key Takeaways *Embrace Innovation:* The aerospace industry is changing rapidly; embracing innovative technologies and challenging existing norms is crucial for success.*Build for the Future:* The need for larger infrastructure in space is evident, and companies like Think Orbital are leading the way in developing solutions to address these challenges.*Collaboration is Key:* Collaborating with talented individuals and fostering a culture of ownership among team members can drive success in the startup environment. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about our Defense market intelligence solutions at GovDiscovery AI (https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/). To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/
    Show More Show Less
    41 mins
  • Ep 79 Victor Vigliotti, Director, U.S. Space Force Front Door

    Ep 79 Victor Vigliotti, Director, U.S. Space Force Front Door
    Mar 19 2026

    In this episode, Victor Vigliotti, Director of the Space Force Front Door, discusses how the US Space Force is transforming its knowledge management and vendor engagement processes. He shares insights into the innovative use of commercial systems like Salesforce to streamline vendor relationships, improve transparency, and enhance strategic matchmaking across government and industry.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

    00:39 The State of Knowledge Management in Space Force

    01:17 Current Processes and Shortfalls in Knowledge Sharing

    02:15 Adoption of Commercial CRM Systems like Salesforce

    04:05 The Salesforce Custom Relationship Management System

    05:10 Matching Capabilities to Space Force Needs

    07:39 Scaling the Front Door System Internally

    08:09 Internal Government Conversations and Requirements

    09:34 Proactive Engagement and Vendor Relationship Building

    11:18 Human and AI Roles in Matchmaking Automation

    13:20 Future Automation and Data Validation with AI/ML

    15:09 Engaging Defense Tech Companies and Industry Outreach

    18:47 Success Stories and Industry Impact

    23:35 Upcoming Developments and System Enhancements

    29:50 Scaling the Front Door to NATO and Beyond

    32:43 How Companies Can Engage with Space Force Front Door

    36:09 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

    USSF Front Door Website:

    https://sscfrontdoor.experience.crmforce.mil/SSCFrontDoor/s/

    LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn, or visit:

    https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
  • Ep 78 Col. John Oliver - U.S. Army Strategic Capital Initiative

    Ep 78 Col. John Oliver - U.S. Army Strategic Capital Initiative
    Mar 11 2026

    In this episode, Colonel John Oliver discusses the U.S. Army Strategic Capital Initiatives, exploring innovative partnerships with private capital and tech companies to modernize the industrial base and enhance military readiness. He discusses the recent U.S. Army Enterprise Strategic Capital Partnership RFI linked here: https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/f825eabd94884cc3b534bfde1927ccd9/view

    Col. John Oliver Bio:

    Colonel John Oliver currently serves as the Imitative Groups Chief, for the Deputy Under Secretary of the Army. He was commissioned as an Infantry Officer from the United States Military Academy in 2006 and has graduated from the Infantry Officer Basic Course, the Maneuver Captain's Career Course, Airborne School, Air Assault School, Ranger School, Jumpmaster School, the Command and General Staff College, and Army War College.

    Prior to rejoining the DUSA's office, Colonel Oliver was assigned to the Headquarters, Department of the Army in the G-8, where he was the Program Priorities and Planning Division chief. Before that, John served in the G-3, where he served as the Total Army Analysis lead for Force Structure among other roles. His previous Force Management assignments include Lead Budget Analyst for the Equipping PEG POM Build, Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General of Army Futures Command, Chief of Force Management for the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), HQDA G-8 Stryker Staff Synchronization Officer, and Executive Officer for the Director, Joint and Integration.

    His prior Infantry assignments include serving as Rifle Company Commander and HHC Commander in the 1-25 SBCT, and Rifle Platoon Leader in the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment. COL Oliver's overseas service includes deployments in support of OIF (x1) and OEF (x2).

    Colonel Oliver holds a Master of Business Administration from Duke University and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Purple Heart, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom Campaign Medals, the Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Army Staff Badge, and the Ranger Tab.

    Key topics: The purpose and goals of the Strategic Capital Initiative Engagement with non-traditional industry partners and tech companies Innovative models for public-private partnerships in defense Addressing risks and misconceptions in military modernization

    LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about our BD solutions at www.govdiscoveryai.com. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. He'll reply!

    https://www.govdiscoveryai.com
    Show More Show Less
    23 mins
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