STARTUPS4DEFENSE
Startups4Defense is a programme co-financed by the European Union (EDIH) and driven by Inneürope. It represents the Defense vertical of Startups4Growth, with a clear mission: to identify, support and amplify technology-based startups and SMEs into the main funding and innovation instruments of the European defense ecosystem.
This is a free programme, valued at €5,000 per participant, offering expert guidance, access to funding opportunities, strategic visibility, and direct connection with key players in the European innovation and defense landscape.
The programme is delivered in a hybrid and flexible format, tailored to the specific needs of each startup, with personalised mentoring and online follow-up to ensure maximum impact and measurable results.
LIMITED SPOTS
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by Inneüropewith the support of EDIH
Program
Access to the European EUDIS program
- We help you structure your proposal and define your proof of concept to apply for the EUDIS program, which offers access to specialized European bootcamps and up to €65,000 in direct funding for innovative startups. A real gateway to the European defense ecosystem.
- Submission of applications open until April 27th. There is still time to position your project and take the leap.
- Priority technology themes of the EUDIS 2025 program: Artificial intelligence and big data, Immersive technologies, Advanced materials and additive manufacturing, Communications and cybersecurity, Robotics, automation and mobility, Smart sensors, Biotechnology and health, Energy and sustainability.
01
Training and strategy in financing with a practical approach
- Access the exclusive webinar organized with our group company WeGrant, where we break down how to access the European Defense Fund (EDF) and the EUDIS program. +1 billion euros in calls for proposals in 2025.
- After this Webinar, you will receive an exclusive report with practical recommendations to design a solid and effective participation strategy in European defense innovation instruments.
02
Expert support in fundraising
- We guide you in the design and execution of your financing strategy, both in public aid and alternative capital.
03
Scaling through Proof-of-Concept Testing
- Map of scaling opportunities for your company.
- Accompaniment for the presentation of an application within 6 months from the identification of opportunities..
- Co-definition of PoCs that best suit the characteristics of each call.
04
Partnership and Networking
- Networking and key alliances with international accelerators and hubs.
- Participate in sessions with accelerators, investors and key players in the European defense ecosystem
- Positioning in key markets through strategic connections.
05
Startups and SMEs
This program is aimed at Startups and SMEs with solutions applicable to the defense sector in areas such as:
• Dual technologies
• Health and tactical medicine
• Aerospace and drones
• Applied Artificial Intelligence
• Cybersecurity and cyberdefense
• Energy and operational sustainability
• Secure communications
• Sensors, surveillance and autonomous systems
• Interoperable platforms
Roadmap
01
Innovative Profile & Pitch
- We review your B2B and B2C business model, assess its scalability, and strengthen your value proposition.
- Output: A growth profile tailored for international markets.
02
Opportunity Dashboard
- We identify open innovation calls and facilitate access to international accelerators and hubs.
- Output: A roadmap of upcoming calls and a participation plan for programs and summits.
03
Proposal Preparation
- We provide guidance in preparing proposals for acceleration programs and in co-designing PoCs
- Output: Submission of 1 project to relevant calls.
04
Investors Day + Final Event
- Take part in our final Networking Event — an exclusive space to connect with investors, corporations, and business partners.
Why now?
The EU has launched an unprecedented strategy to strengthen its strategic autonomy.
The participation of startups and SMEs is essential. It is not just about large corporations: Europe needs agile, applied and technology-minded innovation.
This is your moment to position yourself where the future of European defense is being decided.
INNDIH is a project funded by the European Union through the Digital Europe program, Grant Agreement nº101083002.
