DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) is a NATO acceleration programme that supports innovative technology companies in developing solutions for defence and security challenges. The programme supports the development of dual-use technologies: innovations with both civilian purposes and military purposes. Its focus is on technological breakthroughs that contribute to security, resilience and strategic autonomy within the Alliance.

What is DIANA?

DIANA is an acceleration programme and functions as an international innovation ecosystem in which technology companies gain access to a network of accelerators, test facilities, investors and defence experts. Through the programme, innovators can develop, test and demonstrate new technologies in realistic operational environments.

The programme became operational in 2023 and makes use of a network of more than 180 test centres and dozens of accelerator sites across NATO member states. Through DIANA, NATO aims to strengthen collaboration between start-ups, companies, knowledge institutions and defence organisations, while enhancing the Alliance’s innovation capacity.

What type of projects are eligible?

• Projects are eligible within the following themes:
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics
• Autonomous systems and robotics
• Quantum technology
• Biotechnology and human enhancement
• Advanced materials and manufacturing
• Energy and propulsion technologies
• Space and communication systems

These technologies must contribute to addressing concrete defence and security challenges.

How does the programme work?

DIANA operates through Challenge Calls, in which NATO formulates specific technological challenges. Companies can submit solutions in response. Selected innovations take part in the DIANA Accelerator Programme, which consists of two phases:

Phase 1 – Accelerator phase (approx. 6 months)

• Access to an accelerator within the DIANA network
• Mentoring by technical and defence experts
• Training in defence and security markets
• Access to test centres and validation environments
• Initial funding of approximately € 100,000 for technological development

Phase 2 – Scale-up phase

• Selection of the most promising innovations
• Further support for commercialisation and investment
• Additional funding and access to international investors and defence organisations
• Innovations will receive up to € 300,000 in additional funding for further development and implementation

Why participate in DIANA?

Participation offers your company the opportunity to:

• Accelerate the development and testing of technologies
• Gain access to NATO networks and defence end users
• Meet international investors and partners
• Enter new markets within defence and security

In addition, participation may lead to further collaboration with NATO countries and potential deployment of the technology in operational environments.

Who can apply?

DIANA is intended for:

• Start-ups and scale-ups
• Technology companies with deep-tech innovations
• Companies established in NATO member states
• Organisations with technology at a minimum of TRL 4 (prototype stage)

Hezelburcht supports companies in applying for NATO DIANA

The DIANA programme involves a competitive selection procedure and requires strong positioning and a clear articulation of the technology and its impact. Hezelburcht supports organisations with:

• Advising on DIANA opportunities
• Assessing fit with current DIANA challenges
• Developing a strong application strategy
• Writing and optimising the grant application
• Positioning the technology within the NATO innovation landscape

Would you like to know whether your innovation fits within DIANA? Get in touch with our Defence specialists! Please contact us via 088 495 20 00 or info@hezelburcht.com
for more information. Or fill in the form: