European Defence Fund (EDF)

For whom?

Innovative SMEs, companies, knowledge institutes and universities

For what?

New technologies and products for the defence sector

Budget

€ 8 billion (2021-2027)

More information on EDF

Are you currently developing new and interesting technologies or products? Then perhaps the European Commission (EC) is looking for your innovation! The EC offers funding via the European Defence Fund (EDF) 2021-2027 for new technologies and products that can be a great asset to the (European) defence industry. The EDF will not only strengthen the industry and strategic autonomy, but will also give you the chance to offer a valuable contribution on a European level and collaborate with other parties!

Background EDF

The programme is focused on stimulating the defence industry and is therefore a great addition to the research and innovation programme Horizon Europe. The past years several preparatory programmes were launched, such as the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP), which closed its final calls in 2020.

Work Programme 2023: funding for collaborative research and development

Collaborative defence research and development projects are eligible to apply for 8 calls for proposals that are presented in the Work Programme of 2023. The 2023 EDF Work Programme covers 34 topics and is expected to open on 15 june 2023 with a deadline for submission of 22 november 2023.

For whom is the European Defence Fund?

The EC aims to encourage more SMEs to participate within the programme. The preparatory programme EDIDP was for that reason specifically focused on SMEs. This aim has now also been extended to the new fund by encouraging collaboration between businesses, research institutes and universities. Business no matter their size, from SMEs to midcaps, are invited to participate and collaborate.

There are some requirements in order to participate in a collaborative project:

  • Participating organisations have to be located in an EU Member State;
  • Participating organisations are owned by members of the EU;
  • Project proposals are focused on the needs of the defence industry.

Budget and grant contribution

The 2023 EDF Work Programme has a total funding budget of about € 1,2 billion. Applicable baseline funding rates are up to 100% of eligible costs for research projects and up to 90% of eligible costs for development projects.

European Defence Fund application support

Stay up to date on possible changes and future EDF calls by keeping an eye on this page. We would be pleased to find out whether your project is a match for the EDF or any other funding programme. You can contact us via 088 495 20 00 or fill in the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

contact

Do you wish to receive more information on the European Defence Fund? We would be pleased to answer your questions! Contact us via 088 495 20 00 or info@hezelburcht.com. Or fill in the form below: