European Defence Fund: Enhancing Opportunities for All (EOA) Project

Welcome to our platform, an initiative developed as part of the Enhancing Opportunities for All (EOA) project under the European Defence Fund (EDF). This website aims to support and strengthen the outreach and collaboration efforts of the National Focal Points (NFPs) network across EU Member States and Norway.

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What is the European Defence Fund

The European Defence Fund (EDF) is a significant initiative by the European Union aimed at fostering and supporting collaborative research and development projects in the defence sector among EU Member States. Established to enhance the EU's strategic autonomy and strengthen its defence capabilities, the EDF focuses on financing projects that can improve the competitiveness and innovation of the European defence industry. For the period of 2021-2027 the EU has allocated almost 8 billion euros to the EDF.

Key Objectives of the EDF:

  • 01 Promote Collaboration

    The EDF encourages Member States to collaborate on defence projects, reducing fragmentation and fostering a more integrated defence market.

  • 02 Boost Innovation

    By (co)funding cutting-edge research and development projects, the EDF aims to stimulate technological advancements in defence.

  • 03 Enhance Competitiveness

    Supporting a competitive and innovative industrial base in the EU, the EDF seeks to maintain the Union's technological edge.

  • 04 Support Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)

    The EDF includes measures to ensure that SMEs can participate and benefit from defence projects, enhancing their role in the defence supply chain.

Annual Work Programmes

Each year, the European Commission publishes annual Work Programmes that outline the specific funding priorities, eligibility criteria, and application procedures for that year. These Work Programmes are essential for informing potential applicants about the focus areas and available opportunities within the EDF.

To access the most recent annual Work Programmes and other relevant information, you can visit the official European Commission page for the European Defence Fund:

European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) and European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP)

The European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) and the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) are key initiatives by the European Union aimed at fostering innovation, collaboration, and technological advancements in the defence sector. EDIP is a Regulation proposed by the Commission to start implementing concrete measures identified in the EDIS. These initiatives are designed to enhance the EU's defence capabilities, promote strategic autonomy, and ensure a competitive and innovative defence industry.

European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS)

The European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) and the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP) are key initiatives by the European Union aimed at fostering innovation, collaboration, and technological advancements in the defence sector. These initiatives are designed to enhance the EU's defence capabilities, promote strategic autonomy, and ensure a competitive and innovative defence industry.


Key Objectives of EDIS:

Stimulate Innovation:

EDIS aims to foster a culture of innovation by funding cutting-edge research and development projects that address critical defence challenges.

Enhance Technological Edge:

By supporting the development of advanced technologies, EDIS seeks to maintain and enhance the EU's technological superiority in defence.

Support SMEs and Startups:

EDIS includes specific measures to encourage the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups, recognizing their role as key drivers of innovation.

Promote Dual-Use Technologies:

EDIS focuses on technologies that have both military and civilian applications, maximizing the broader impact of defence innovations.

European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP)

The EDIP is a Regulation proposed by the Commission designed to foster collaboration and partnerships among EU Member States, defence industries, research organizations, and other stakeholders. It aims to create a cohesive and integrated innovation ecosystem in the European defence sector.


Roles and Responsibilities of EDIP:

Facilitate Collaboration:

EDIP promotes joint research and development projects, bringing together diverse stakeholders to address common defence challenges.

Build Networks:

By creating networks of innovation actors, EDIP helps to share knowledge, best practices, and resources, enhancing the overall innovation capacity of the EU.

Support Technology Transfer:

EDIP encourages the transfer of technologies from research to practical applications, ensuring that innovative solutions are rapidly adopted and integrated into defence capabilities.

Promote Investment:

EDIP works to attract investments in defence innovation, both from public and private sources, to ensure sustained funding for groundbreaking projects.

By working together, EDIS and EDIP aim to create a dynamic and resilient innovation environment in the European defence sector. These initiatives are crucial for maintaining the EU's strategic autonomy, enhancing its defence capabilities, and ensuring a competitive and forward-looking defence industry.

Upcoming events

FEINDEF 2025

Join FEINDEF 2025, Spain’s International Defence and Security Exhibition, taking place from May 12 to 14, 2025, at IFEMA Feria de Madrid in Madrid, Spain. This on-site event brings together industry professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore the latest innovations and advancements in the defence and security sector. With exhibitions, conferences, and networking opportunities, FEINDEF offers a unique platform to connect with national and international entities. Registration is required. For more details, visit the official FEINDEF website: https://www.feindef.com/index.php/en/ 

  • 12 may 2025 - 14 may 2025
  • Spain, Madrid
  • Registration
  • On-site
NFP
EDF

European Defence Innovation Days 2025

The European Defence Agency (EDA), under the auspices of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, is excited to announce the third edition of the European Defence Innovation Days (EDID). This prestigious event will take place from 13th to 16th May 2025 in Krakow, Poland. EDID 2025 will bring together high-level representatives from national administrations, armed forces, European institutions, industry, and research organisations. It offers a unique platform for industry players to showcase the outcomes of their innovation efforts and demonstrate cutting-edge technologies in defence and security. The EDA invites National Defence Industry Associations (NDIAs) and the Aerospace, Security, and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD) to inform their members about this opportunity to reserve exhibition space. Exhibitors will have the chance to present their innovations to a wide audience, including defence and security stakeholders from across Europe. In addition to showcasing products and solutions, exhibitors are encouraged to host 15-minute "tech talks" in dedicated break-out rooms, providing further insight into their technological advancements and fostering direct discussions with potential partners and clients. Key Information for Exhibitors: Stand Sizes Available: 6, 9, and 18 sqm  Stand Requirements: Preference will be given to physical mock-ups, prototypes (physical or digital), and demonstrators. Cross-border collaborations, dual-use technologies, and SMEs/start-ups are strongly encouraged. Deadline for Expression of Interest: 5th February 2025, 16:00 Brussels time Tech Talks: Limited availability for 15-minute presentations in dedicated break-out rooms Costs: Basic stand (6 sqm) for 1805 PLN net, medium stand (9 sqm) for 2459 PLN net, large stand (18 sqm) for 3341 PLN net All stand-related costs are the responsibility of the exhibitor. Venue services will be available to assist with stand set-up and customization. Interested parties are invited to submit their expression of interest by contacting industry@eda.europa.eu, indicating their preferred stand size and their intention to use the exhibitor services. Please also provide details of any SMEs or start-ups that would like to participate in the tech talks. The EDA looks forward to welcoming a diverse range of exhibitors and fostering valuable networking opportunities at this key event in the European defence calendar.

  • 13 may 2025 - 16 may 2025
  • Poland, Krakow
  • Fee
  • On-site
EDA

EDF Matchmaking Day #4

Join the 4th online matchmaking event organised under the Enhancing Opportunities for All (EOA) project, supported by the European Defence Fund (EDF), on 14 May 2025. This virtual event is designed for companies, SMEs, research actors, and anyone interested in participating in EDF-funded projects. The EDF aims to strengthen cooperation across the EU’s defence sector, supporting projects from research through to prototype development, with a focus on increasing interoperability and boosting the EU’s defence industrial base. Event Programme – 14 May 2025: 11:00–12:00 CET: Webinar on EDF Proposal Evaluation and Project Management – Practical advice and insights for applicants. 13:00–18:00 CET: Online Matchmaking Sessions – Connect with potential partners, explore opportunities, and form consortia for EDF calls. Who can participate? The event is open to all eligible EDF applicants, including those seeking partners or wishing to join or form consortia for EDF projects. Registration Details: Platform Registration Deadline: 13 May 2025, 23:59 CET Meeting Scheduling Deadline: 13 May 2025, 23:59 CET If you have registered for previous events in 2024 or 2025, use the same email to retrieve your profile. New participants can follow the standard registration process. Once registered, you can specify your areas of interest, browse participants, and request meetings. Filters help you target the most relevant contacts. Meeting reminders and links will be sent via email on the event day. Find out more or register via this link: Registrations space | European Defence Fund Matchmaking Day #4 

  • 14 may 2025 - 14 may 2025
  • France, Paris
  • Registration
  • Online
NFP
EDF
EOA

Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Industry Day

Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Industry Day – 27 May 2025  The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) is pleased to announce the 2nd Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Industry Day, taking place on 27 May 2025 at the NSPA Headquarters in Capellen, Luxembourg. The Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) is one of NATO’s High Visibility Projects, addressing the urgent need to develop a new generation of medium multi-role rotorcraft to replace current fleets, which will begin to phase out between 2035 and 2050. Following the extension of the NGRC initiative by Defence Ministers of France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, and the United Kingdom (with Canada expected to join in 2025), the programme is now entering its crucial Concept Design phase. This phase aims to define a preferred design solution by 2027, forming the basis for future development, production, and in-service support stages. Objectives of the Industry Day: To present the NSPA’s competitive acquisition strategy and upcoming activities related to the NGRC Concept Design phase To engage in discussion and gather feedback from prospective industry participants To offer networking opportunities and encourage partnerships among attending companies Event Details: Date: 27 May 2025 Venue: NSPA Headquarters, Capellen, Luxembourg Registration Deadline: 15 April 2025 Confirmation of Participation: By 27 April 2025 Participation Limit: Two representatives per company Optional: Submission of a two-page company profile to be shared with attendees for networking purposes Participation is by registration only, and acceptance will be based on: Eligibility: Companies must have legal residence and place of effective management in a NATO nation Qualification: Demonstrated experience in relevant aviation sectors (e.g., aircraft manufacturing, digital enablers, systems integration, logistics support, etc.) Priority will be given to new companies or those with limited past business with NSPA Space availability Please note: This Industry Day is not a pre-qualification or solicitation conference. Companies are asked to await confirmation before making travel arrangements. Tentative Agenda: 08:30 – 09:30: Arrival and in-processing 09:00 – 09:30: Welcome and administrative remarks 09:30 – 12:30: Briefing on the current status of the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) and future steps until 2029 12:30 – 13:30: Lunch break 13:30 – 14:30: Workshop on Life Cycle Costs (LCC): Discussion on key cost categories and assumptions for LCC estimates prior to design phase 14:45 – 15:45: Workshop on Open Systems Architecture (OSA) and Digital Engineering: Exploring OSA approaches and digital ecosystems to drive innovation and efficiencies 16:00 – 17:00: Workshop on Intellectual Property Rights and Export-Controlled Data: Reviewing data rights and considerations for various programme stakeholders 17:15 – 18:30: Workshop on Design, Development and Integration Planning: Roadmap for NGRC design, prototyping, milestones, risk reduction strategies 13:30 – 18:30: Networking opportunity: Dedicated space for discussions and side meetings among industry participants Registration: Companies interested in participating must complete the online registration form on the NSPA website by 15 April 2025. For more information: www.nspa.nato.int Email: industry.info@nspa.nato.int

  • 27 may 2025 - 27 may 2025
  • Luxembourg, Capellen
  • Registration
  • On-site
NATO

NFP Network (National Focal Points)

The NFP Network is an essential component of the EDF, comprising designated contact points in each EU Member State. These National Focal Points serve as the primary interface between the EDF and national stakeholders, including industry, research organizations, and government bodies.

Roles and Responsibilities of NFPs:

  • Information Dissemination

    NFPs provide up-to-date information about the EDF, including funding opportunities, application processes, and project requirements.

  • Support and Guidance

    They assist potential applicants in preparing proposals, navigating the application process, and ensuring compliance with EDF guidelines.

  • Networking and Partnering

    NFPs facilitate networking and collaboration among national and international stakeholders, helping to build consortia for joint projects.

  • Feedback and Reporting

    They collect feedback from national stakeholders on the implementation of the EDF and report to the European Commission, contributing to the continuous improvement of the fund.

By bridging the gap between the European Commission and national stakeholders, the NFP Network plays a crucial role in maximizing the impact and accessibility of the European Defence Fund.

NFP Contacts

EOA Project

The EOA project, backed by the EDF, involves 20 entities from 16 Member States and Norway, all of which are integral to or associated with the NFP network. These NFPs are tasked with assisting national stakeholders in applying for and managing EDF-funded projects.

More about EOA Project
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