The EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) is an instrument supported by the European Defence Fund (EDF) to strengthen defence innovation within the EU. EUDIS offers a range of instruments for SMEs, start-ups and other actors that are not traditionally part of the defence sector. Through various grant and financing instruments, as well as coaching programmes, EUDIS lowers the barriers to entry into the defence sector for entrepreneurs. The EUDIS Business Accelerator is an instrument through which start-ups and scale-ups with innovative technologies can participate in an 8-month programme of training and coaching, including financial support of € 120,000. The EUDIS SME Calls are launched annually with two non-thematic calls: one for research actions by SMEs and one for development actions by SMEs.

What is EUDIS?

The EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) is a European programme that stimulates innovation in the defence sector. The initiative forms part of the European Defence Fund (EDF) and focuses on accelerating the development, validation and scaling of new technologies with defence applications.

Whereas the EDF focuses on large-scale defence projects, EUDIS specifically lowers the threshold for entering the defence market. The scheme particularly supports start-ups, scale-ups and new entrants through grants, accelerator programmes and access to financing and European networks. In doing so, EUDIS serves as an important stepping stone towards participation in larger EDF projects.

Who can apply?

EUDIS funding and programmes are available for:

• SMEs and start-ups
• Scale-ups and innovative enterprises
• Research organisations and consortia
• Non-traditional players in the defence sector

In particular, companies without prior experience in the defence market are actively encouraged to participate.

EUDIS programmes

Within EUDIS, several programmes are available, each with its own calls. For example, the EUDIS Business Accelerator, the EUDIS Business Coaching and the EUDIS SME calls:

EUDIS Business Accelerator

The EUDIS Business Accelerator is a programme for start-ups and scale-ups with innovative defence or dual-use technologies. The programme supports companies in their growth through intensive guidance, training and boot camps, and helps them gain a better understanding of defence market needs. The programme lasts 8 months and offers tailored training and coaching. In addition, participants gain access to a broad network of investors, industry partners and defence organisations.

Alongside this substantive support, selected companies also receive financial support in the form of a voucher of approximately €120,000, with additional prizes for top-performing participants. The programme is open to companies from the EU and Norway and aims to accelerate innovation and improve market access within the European defence sector. The application period for the autumn 2026 cohort runs from 13 April 2026 to 30 May 2026. Interested in participating? Please contact us.

EUDIS SME Calls

The SME Calls within the EUDIS programme are open, non-thematic funding calls aimed at SMEs, start-ups and research organisations active in defence innovation. These calls lower the barriers to entry into the defence market and provide funding for both research and development projects, with grants of up to approximately €4 million for research and €6 million for development. Projects may focus on a wide range of defence applications, including adapting civilian technologies for military use. In addition, participants receive support such as business coaching to help bring innovations to market more quickly. The EUDIS SME Calls are launched annually with two non-thematic calls: one for research actions by SMEs and one for development actions by SMEs.

Which projects are eligible?

EUDIS is intended for innovative defence technologies and dual-use applications. Examples of relevant themes include:

• Artificial intelligence and data analytics
• Robotics and autonomous systems (e.g. drones)
• Cybersecurity and digital technologies
• Communication and sensor technologies
• Space and satellite applications
• Advanced materials and photonics

Projects may focus on:

• Research and development (R&D)
• Validation and prototyping
• Scaling and market introduction
• Application of civilian innovations in defence (“spin-in”)

Support from Hezelburcht in defence projects

EUDIS offers ample opportunities for innovative companies wishing to contribute to the future of European defence. With its strong focus on SMEs and new entrants, the scheme is particularly suitable for organisations looking to scale their technology towards defence applications. Curious whether your company or project idea aligns with EUDIS? Get in touch to discuss the opportunities with our defence specialists via info@hezelburcht.com, call 088 495 20 00, or complete the contact form: