The auto bailouts in the late-08/early-09 timeframe were structured as warrant purchases (similar to options), and the government did see upside. In-Q-Tel is a

The auto bailouts in the late-08/early-09 timeframe were structured as warrant purchases (similar to options), and the government did see upside. In-Q-Tel is a program where the government invests in startups and participates in equity growth. So it's not impossible, but not particularly common.