EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) Programme Summary

The EU Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS) was established under the European Defence Fund (EDF) and is implemented by the European Commission. Launched with a budget close to €2 billion, the scheme supports innovative defence projects aimed at strengthening the EU’s military capabilities and involving smaller players in the defence ecosystem. In 2026, EUDIS measures account for €231 million of the total EDF budget, with a strong focus on enhancing participation of SMEs and increasing cross-border innovation across Europe.

EUDIS Programme General Aim & Objective

EUDIS is designed to lower entry barriers for SMEs, startups, and other non-traditional defence actors, giving them broader access to EDF resources. The programme’s objectives include:

• Supporting innovation through hackathons, technological challenges, and innovation hubs.
• Encouraging civil-defence cross-fertilisation to bring dual-use technologies to market.
• Facilitating defence readiness through collaboration and advanced R&D

Key innovation areas include: Medtech & life science, Quantum computing & sensing, Communication & connectivity, Robotics & autonomous systems, Semiconductors, Artificial Intelligence, Digitisation & cybersecurity, Space & satellites, Advanced- & nanomaterials, Photonics.

Work Programme 2026

The 2026 EDF Work Programme earmarks €231 million for defence innovation under EUDIS, aimed at:

• A Technological Challenge in Digital Transformation call category, focusing on AI-based tactical situational awareness using swarms of small robots and drones.

• R&D calls fostering spin-in of EU funded civil research in two call categories: Energy Resilience and Environmental Transition (New turbofan engine) and in Underwater Warfare (Layered critical seabed infrastructure protection).

• Continued support for start-ups and SMEs through cascade funding calls.

• Eligibility for Ukrainian entities to apply for EDF cascade funding grants.

EUDIS Empower SMEs Guide

Download our guide for more extensive insights into the EUDIS programme.

Five EUDIS Innovation Tracks

The EUDIS offers five distinct innovation tracks designed to foster defence innovation within the European Union. These tracks are tailored to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), startups, and other non-traditional defence industry actors at various stages of their innovation journey. Each track provides unique opportunities and support mechanisms to ensure these innovators can effectively contribute to and benefit from the European Defence Fund (EDF).

Assessment Criteria for EDF’s EUDIS Calls

Applicants must address the following:

• Excellence: Potential disruptive impact in defence

• Innovation: Novelty and applicability to defence

• Competitiveness: EU-wide market potential

• Implementation: Strong work plan and risk management

• Cross-Border Cooperation: Especially with SMEs

• EDTIB Autonomy: Contribution to EU defence sovereignty

About Catalyze

At Catalyze we commit ourselves to accelerating innovations that have a positive impact on the world. We are the market leader in innovation consulting for Life Sciences, Sustainability, and Digital & Industrial deep tech innovations. Contact us today to discuss your EUDIS project and learn how we can support you in developing your submission to the programme.