GMF is a nonpartisan, nonprofit, transatlantic organization headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices across Europe. As a transatlantic think tank, GMF provides important insights and valuable analysis of current affairs, events and discussions. The signing ceremony paved the way for an exchange between the NCI Agency and GMF on current research topics, in particular artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
"These framework agreements strengthen the Alliance to be prepared for future challenges, which is why building strong and lasting partnerships is at the heart of the NCI Agency and our work supporting NATO," stated the NCI Agency General Manager Ludwig Decamps. "The German Marshall Fund has a longstanding commitment to supporting security and defending democracy across the Atlantic. We are happy to establish this collaboration to get greater access to specialized skills, expertise and innovation," he added.
"GMF is pleased to join the Not-For-Profit Framework and we look forward to further enhancing our cooperation with the NCI Agency," stated GMF President, Heather Conley. "As an organization, we constantly seek new partners to advance transatlantic security and defend transatlantic values. This new partnership with the NCI Agency will provide new thinking and innovative solutions to address today's and tomorrow's complex security issues."
The NCI Agency is continuously exploring the use of new technologies and cutting-edge research to support NATO's mission. Access to NATO research projects will allow the GMF to compete for contracts alongside other non-for-profits and companies.
The framework agreement between the GMF and NCI Agency is valid for a period of five years. In total, the Agency has signed Not-For-Profit Framework agreements with 13 organizations from across Allied nations.
During the trip to Germany, NCI Agency General Manager Ludwig Decamps also participated in Munich Cyber Innovation Night – Making More out of 'Stronger Together' and met with Frank Leidenberger, Chief Executive Officer of Bundeswehr's IT System House (BWI). The engagement allowed for exchange on outsourcing practices and future professional development opportunities.