European Innovation Council Defence Mini-Omnibus 2026

About

A funding program providing grants and equity investments for startups and SMEs focused on developing dual-use technologies in the defense sector, offering substantial financial support and access to business acceleration services.

Benefits

• 💰Financial Support
  Grants of up to €2.5 million
• 💼Equity Investment
  Direct equity investments reaching €30 million
• 🚀Business Acceleration
  Access to Business Acceleration Services (BAS) for all EIC supported projects.

Eligibility Criteria

• Startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) developing dual-use technologies
• Companies must demonstrate initial market interest from a qualified investor covering at least 20% of the total target funding round
• Focus on critical security infrastructure, including air and missile defense systems, drones, and counter-drone technologies.

Participation Commitments

• Must participate in major funding rounds
• Companies must be established in the EU or associated countries
• Proposals must meet specific eligibility requirements to be considered for funding.

Target Region

Europe

Target Sector

Defense and dual-use technologies