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.

The EDF (co)finances various types of activities, including feasibility studies, prototyping, and testing, focusing on projects that address identified capability gaps and priorities in the EU's defence landscape.

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 Fund Overview
Annual Work Programmes

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

EURODEF 2025

The French Direction de l'Industrie de Défense is pleased to announce the EURODEF 2025 Business Convention, a major event for the European defence sector. EURODEF 2025 will span two weeks, from March 17 to April 2, 2025, starting with virtual B2B meetings from March 17–31, followed by an in-person closing day on April 2 in Toulon. Building on the success of EURODEF 2024, which attracted 314 participants from 21 countries and facilitated over 1,000 B2B meetings, EURODEF 2025 aims to bring together defence and security SMEs, major European defence groups, and other SMEs to showcase technologies and foster collaborations. In addition to B2B meetings, participants will enjoy informal networking opportunities on April 2, including a conviviality zone and a networking buffet. Registration also provides access to the ENDR conference on Maintenance in the Defence Sector, running concurrently. This is a unique opportunity to connect with EDTIB companies, share expertise, and explore new partnerships in the defence industry. 
  • 17 mar 2025 - 2 apr 2025
  • France, Toulon
  • Free
  • Hybrid
NFP
EDF
ENDR

EUSPA Industry Days 2025

The European Union Agency for the Space Programme (EUSPA) is pleased to announce the EUSPA Industry Days 2025, taking place on March 25–26, 2025, in Prague, Czech Republic, with an option for hybrid participation. This two-day event is a key opportunity for businesses and organizations to engage with the EU space sector, explore procurement opportunities, and gain insights into EUSPA’s future initiatives. The agenda includes keynote speeches, expert panels, and networking sessions, as well as a special master class on crafting competitive proposals for EUSPA tenders. Participants will have access to: Detailed presentations on EUSPA’s procurement plans and funding opportunities Exclusive networking sessions with industry leaders and potential partners A master class to enhance proposal quality and improve chances of securing contracts Date: March 25–26, 2025 Location: Prague, Czech Republic & Online Register for the event via this link!
  • 25 mar 2025 - 26 mar 2025
  • Czechia, Prague
  • Registration
  • Hybrid
DEFIS

EDA Maritime Week

The European Defence Agency (EDA) is hosting Maritime Week at its premises in Brussels from March 31 to April 4, 2025. This week-long series of workshops will focus on key topics in the maritime domain: Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA): Exploring AI solutions and technical advancements for MARSUR development. Naval Combat and Maritime Interdiction (NCMI): Showcasing innovative solutions, including the European Combat Vessel (ECV). Underwater and Seabed Warfare (UWSBW): Addressing launch-and-recovery solutions and deep underwater communications. The sessions will feature a mix of industry workshops and capability expert group meetings, offering a platform for industry and defence experts to collaborate and exchange ideas. An official invitation and registration details will be shared soon.  Please do not hesitate to contact elvira.bermudez@eda.europa.eu and sine.ozkarasahin@eda.europa.eu in case there are any questions or clarifications necessary.
  • 31 mar 2025 - 4 apr 2025
  • Belgium, Brussels
  • Registration
  • On-site
EDA
EU EXPO

EDA Maritime Week 2025 – Industry Workshops

The European Defence Agency (EDA) invites industry professionals to participate in the EDA Maritime Week Industry Workshops, taking place from March 31 to April 3, 2025, in Brussels, Belgium, with the option for online participation. These workshops provide a key platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss innovative solutions in Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), Naval Combat and Maritime Interdiction (NCMI), and Underwater & Seabed Warfare (UWSBW). Selected companies will have the opportunity to present their technologies and engage in discussions on advancing maritime defence capabilities in Europe. Workshop Programme: Monday, March 31, 2025 (EUROCONTROL Premises – Hybrid) MDA Industry Workshop: AI-driven solutions for MARSUR 13:00-13:30 – Arrival at EUROCONTROL and in-processing 13:30-13:45 – Opening remarks and administrative announcements (EDA) 13:45-15:20 – Industry presentations on integrating AI-driven solutions into the MARSUR system Presenting companies: CLS, Athanor, ABB, INDRA Keynote speaker: Judith Dijk (EDA) 15:20-15:35 – Coffee break 15:35-17:20 – Industry presentations (continued) Presenting companies: IPS, Fugro, dotOcean, Fincantieri Next Tech, Ubotica 17:20-18:00 – Open discussion and Q&A Tuesday, April 1, 2025 (EDA Premises – Hybrid) MDA Industry Workshop: Technical solutions for MARSUR (EU SECRET level) 09:30-10:00 – Arrival at EDA and in-processing 10:00-10:15 – Opening remarks and administrative announcements (EDA) 10:15-12:00 – Industry presentations on enhancing MARSUR network security and technical solutions Presenting companies: Eviden, Infodas, Indra Keynote speaker: R.A. Ignacio Cuartero Lorenzo (EUMS) 12:00-13:00 – Networking lunch Wednesday, April 2, 2025 (EDA Premises – Hybrid) NCMI Industry Workshop: European Combat Vessel (ECV) – Innovative Solutions 09:00-09:15 – Opening remarks and administrative announcements (EDA) 09:15-12:30 – Industry presentations on new technologies for the European Combat Vessel (ECV) Presenting companies: Hull Vane B.V., SH Defence, CUBEDIN, Leonardo S.p.A., Indra, Proxflyer, Edinaf Keynote speakers: ENIG-ASD, NVL 12:30-13:00 – Networking lunch Thursday, April 3, 2025 (EDA Premises – Hybrid) UWSBW Industry Workshop: Launch & Recovery Systems & Deep-Sea Communications 09:00-09:15 – Opening remarks and administrative announcements (EDA) 09:15-11:30 – Industry presentations on launch and recovery systems for uncrewed underwater and surface vehicles (ROVs/AUVs/USVs) Presenting companies: Fugro, SH Defence, Henriksen Keynote speaker: PESCO Coordinator for Modular Seabed Vessel (MSV) 11:30-12:00 – Open discussion and Q&A 12:00-13:00 – Networking lunch 13:00-15:15 – Industry presentations on underwater communication systems for deep-sea operations (up to 6000 meters) Presenting companies: Indra, Kongsberg, Naval Group Keynote speaker: Juan Jesus Hernandez (EDA) – CAPTECH Maritime study on HISUCOMSU 15:15-16:00 – Open discussion and Q&A Participation and Registration Format: Hybrid (On-site at EDA & EUROCONTROL premises and online via WebEx) In-person participation is encouraged for companies selected to present their solutions. To allow broad participation, companies are requested to limit in-person attendance to one representative. Registration deadline: March 19, 2025! Confirmation of participation: March 21, 2025 Register for the event here! For further inquiries, please contact sine.ozkarasahin@eda.europa.eu with a copy to CAP@eda.europa.eu.
  • 31 mar 2025 - 3 apr 2025
  • Belgium, Brussels
  • Registration
  • Hybrid
EDA

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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