EDF Matchmaking Day #4

The European Commission, in cooperation with CenSec (Centre for Defence, Space and Security) and the Danish Life Science Cluster, will host a European conference titled “The Resilient Soldier” on 6–7 May 2025 in Aalborg, Denmark. The event will explore the intersection of healthcare and defence, aiming to foster innovation, collaboration, and synergies between these two critical sectors. Organised under the framework of the European Network of Defence Regions (ENDR) and managed by DG DEFIS, the conference will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, healthcare and defence experts, and regional stakeholders. It will also contribute to ENDR’s mission of helping regions and clusters collaborate, access EU funding, and support SME development in the defence sector. Conference Themes: Europe’s vision for health and defence: Can a unified front be formed in an era of new threats? Before the battle: Strengthening soldier resilience through preventive healthcare During the battle: Medical countermeasures, from devices to biologics and drugs After the battle: Innovations in treatment and recovery of wounded soldiers The programme will feature keynote speakers from both government and industry, a networking dinner, B2B matchmaking opportunities, and an exhibition area. Register now via this link: The Resilient Soldier Dates: 6–7 May 2025 Location: Aalborg, Denmark Organisers: European Commission, CenSec, Danish Life Science Cluster This event is an excellent opportunity for professionals from both the healthcare and defence sectors to connect, collaborate, and contribute to building a more integrated and resilient European approach to defence health innovation.

Join the EUDIS Defence Hackathon, part of the European Defence Fund's EUDIS (European Defence Innovation Scheme), which supports cutting-edge solutions to technological defence challenges. Designed for start-ups, small tech companies, university teams, and innovators, the Hackathon is your chance to solve real-world defence problems and gain visibility across the European defence ecosystem. From May 9–11, 2025, eight simultaneous hackathons across EU Member States and Norway – including one in Czech Republic – will focus on three pressing defence challenges. The event is followed by a mentorship programme and an exclusive EU-wide live pitching final. The EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2025 invites participants to develop solutions to three key defence challenges. Teams can focus on designing portable, durable, and cost-effective surveillance systems to improve frontline situational awareness; creating scalable, lightweight, and affordable protective gear for soldiers; or developing AI-driven tools to support medics and soldiers in diagnosing injuries and prioritizing care in high-pressure combat situations. Who Can Participate? Citizens AND residents of EU Member States, Norway, or Ukraine, aged 18 or older Teams must consist of at least 2 members and submit a project Proof of eligibility is required during the hackathon How to Apply Register now on the TAIKAI platform Click LOG IN TO JOIN, create your account, complete the registration form, and assemble your team via the matchmaking section. Don’t miss the opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and gain recognition across Europe’s defence landscape. For updates and registration, visit: TAIKAI Platform – EUDIS Hackathon Registration Deadline: May 5, 2025 The EUDIS Defence Hackathon 2025 kicks off with pre-hackathon webinars taking place from March to April 2025, offering participants valuable insights and tips from experts. The registration period closes on May 5, 2025. The hackathon itself will run from May 9 to May 11, 2025, simultaneously across eight locations in the EU, including the Czech Republic. Winning teams will then advance to a two-month mentorship programme held from May 15 to July 9, 2025, providing 40 hours of expert guidance to further develop their solutions. The programme concludes with an EU-wide live pitching final on July 9, 2025, where teams will present their ideas to representatives from EU Member States and compete for recognition and awards.  For more information and to register, please visit the TAIKAI platform – EUDIS Hackathon page. Stay tuned, as specific details on the Czech Republic’s local prizes will be announced shortly. Don’t miss your chance to innovate, collaborate, and make an impact on Europe’s defence future.

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/ 

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.