The European Commission has launched the first open calls for two ambitious initiatives to support European startups, scaleups, SMEs and small mid-caps - the European Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) Business Accelerator and Matchmaking. Two complementary initiatives designed to strengthen Europe’s defence innovation ecosystem.

The EUDIS Business Accelerator will offer tailored support to European start-ups & scale-ups over an 8-month programme featuring six dedicated bootcamps across defence industrial ecosystems in Europe. The companies will gain valuable insights into defence end-users' needs and strengthen their business development and go-to-market strategies. They will receive get dedicated training and coaching by industry experts, exclusive networking opportunities, engagement with investors and defence stakeholders. Selected companies will receive a €65,000 seed-financing voucher. Applications are now open until April 27th. In addition to inviting defence startups and scale-ups from EU and Norway, we are also encouraging key stakeholders from the European defence ecosystem to apply as coaches and trainers to support the companies. 

The EUDIS Matchmaking will offer a unique opportunity for start-ups, SMEs, small mid-caps, investors, defence end-users and corporates to connect, collaborate, and drive innovation in the defence sector. This targeted initiative is aimed to support defence innovators that are either already operating in the defence sector or developing civilian applications with potential defence use cases. Through tailored matchmaking opportunities, participants will gain enhanced access to capital, accelerate their market entry and growth, and foster strategic partnerships. The initiative will feature four onsite and three online Matchmaking events, as well as community building activities. Participants will be assigned with a dedicated community manager who will provide personalised support, facilitate tailored networking opportunities, and offer strategic guidance to ensure maximum benefit from the programme. The call will be open on a continue basis, but we encourage early applications to maximise the opportunities offered by the programme.  

Interested companies and defence stakeholders can apply and find more information about the open call at EUDIS website or the dedicated websites - EUDIS Business Accelerator Website and EUDIS Matchmaking Website.