Who we are

Daniel Shires is the Founder and CEO of Pineland Strategies, a defense and dual-use advisory firm helping early-stage ventures navigate the complex intersection of innovation, strategy, and government adoption.

A former U.S. Army Special Operations officer, Daniel brings over two decades of experience leading technology integration and acquisition initiatives across the Department of Defense. He has served in roles spanning operational leadership, modernization strategy, and venture advisory, with the vast majority of his military career spent in U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM).

Daniel’s approach is rooted in the Special Operations principle of working by, with, and through, leveraging trusted networks and a deep understanding of the acquisition ecosystem to help founders translate breakthrough technologies into mission-ready solutions. He has advised multiple venture-backed startups in autonomy, AI, and advanced communications, supporting their first government contracts and strategic partnerships.

In addition to leading Pineland Strategies, Daniel is the Managing Director of the Founder Institute’s Defense and Veteran Cohorts.