About Us

About The
Funderburke Group

The Funderburke Group is a premier strategic advisory firm based in the Greater Washington, D.C. area , delivering trusted counsel and transformative solutions in Government, Public Policy, and Leadership Development. Founded by Dr. Joe Funderburke — an accomplished national security strategist and former senior advisor across the White House, Pentagon, and U.S. Congress — our firm bridges high - level experience with a deep commitment to civic empowerment

We serve government agencies, academic institutions, and mission-driven organizations seeking to navigate complexity, build resilience, and drive meaningful change. Our core competencies include national security strategy, government affairs, leadership development, and civic impact, guided by a multidisciplinary approach rooted in experience, integrity, and innovation.
Our work is distinguished by decades of service at the highest levels of government, active Top Secret/SCI credentials, and a legacy of mentoring the next generation of public servants. Whether shaping global defense policy, supporting organizational transformation, or expanding access to opportunity, we remain focused on one purpose: helping leaders rise to meet the moment— strategically, ethically, and effectively.

Joe Funderburke, Ph.D.

President & CEO, The Funderburke Group

Dr. Joe Funderburke is a nationally respected leader in defense strategy, government affairs, and civic engagement, with over 25 years of experience advising the highest levels of the U.S. government. He currently serves as President and CEO of The Funderburke Group, a strategic advisory firm focused on national security, public policy, and leadership development.

Dr. Funderburke holds an active Top Secret/SCI clearance and has served in critical roles across the White House, the Pentagon, U.S. Special Operations Command, and the U.S. Congress. A trusted strategist and policy innovator, he helped shape the 2022 National Security Strategy, led the creation of the Army’s first Strategic Studies Group, and brokered international agreements that advanced U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific.
An accomplished educator, he teaches graduate-level courses on strategy, leadership, and global security at both Georgetown University and Syracuse University. His academic background includes degrees from West Point, the Naval War College, George Washington University, and a Ph.D. from the University of Central Florida.
Beyond his government service, Dr. Funderburke is deeply committed to mentorship and community uplift. He co-founded Academy X, a national program that has helped over 500 high school students from 28 states earn appointments to U.S. service academies and win ROTC scholarships. A Lifetime Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he has mentored over 200 young men through initiatives like Kappa League, Kamp Kappa, and the Beautillion Program.
At Alfred Street Baptist Church, he serves on the Foundation Board, helping to distribute more than $1 million in scholarships annually. He also leads Discipleship Group 6, with over 300 members, and was recently elected president of the church’s newest ministry, the Divine Nine Ministry.
A recognized civic leader, Dr. Funderburke was unanimously appointed to the Board of Governors of the Tower Club at Tysons, one of the nation’s premier business and social clubs. He also serves on the Arts Fairfax Board, championing access to the arts across Fairfax County, Virginia.
Dr. Funderburke is known for his visionary leadership, integrity, and unwavering dedication to service, qualities that continue to shape a safer, smarter, and more inclusive future.

Our Vision

To be the nation’s premier strategic advisory firm—empowering public, private, and civic leaders to shape a safer, smarter, and more inclusive future through principled leadership, bold innovation, and enduring service.

Our Mission

The Funderburke Group delivers trusted counsel and transformative solutions in national security, public policy, and leadership development. We partner with decision-makers across government, academia, and the private sector to advance strategic outcomes, develop future-ready leaders, and champion civic engagement that uplifts communities and strengthens democracy.

Scroll to Top