Regional and European contributions to defence area: aligning priorities and funding strategies

The Defence and Security Industry Association of the Czech Republic (AOBP), as a member of the EOA consortium, is organising the EDF Onsite Matchmaking 2026, under the auspices of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic. The event will take place on 17 February 2026, from 13:00 to 17:00 CET, at the DAP Hotel in Prague. This afternoon matchmaking forum is designed to bring together participants from across Europe who are planning to apply for the upcoming European Defence Fund (EDF) 2026 calls. It will provide a valuable platform for forging new partnerships and forming strong international consortia. Participants from industry, academia, and research institutions will have the opportunity to: Connect with other organisations interested in EDF 2026 topics Identify complementary expertise and discuss project ideas Build strategic consortia for upcoming proposals The event is open to entities interested in defence research and innovation under the EDF programme. More details, including the agenda and registration link, will be shared shortly. Key Information Date: 17 February 2026 Time: 13:00–17:00 CET Venue: DAP Hotel, Prague, Czech Republic For inquiries, please contact: edf@aobp.cz.  We look forward to welcoming you in Prague.

DG DEFIS together with ENDR member CARIE and the Cyprus Defence & Space Industry Cluster, invites you to the high-level hybrid forum Battlefield ReDEFINED 2026, held under the framework of the European Network of Defence-related Regions (ENDR). Taking place on 26–27 February 2026 at the Pavilion Hall in Nicosia, Cyprus, the event is organised under the auspices of the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Set in a historically strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, this two-day forum will spotlight the role of dual-use innovation in strengthening European security, defence, and space resilience. The event will bring together a conference programme and a static exhibition featuring Cypriot and European manufacturers. It will provide a platform for policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and innovators to engage with the latest trends shaping the European defence innovation ecosystem. Thematic Focus Shaping the Future of the Cypriot Defence & Security Ecosystem Developments in Cyprus' defence and security SME landscape, supported by European funding instruments. Dual-Use Innovations: Bridging Civil and Military Needs Adaptation of civilian technologies for conflict zones and defence applications. Force Multipliers & Future Capabilities Comprehensive security models, cyber resilience, crisis response, and supply chain challenges, with lessons from across Europe. Open to professionals from the defence, technology, and policy sectors, including: Defence and security professionals Civilian tech innovators Government and EU representatives Academia and research institutions Ethics and legal experts SMEs and startups International organisations and media Key Information Date: 26–27 February 2026 Location: Pavilion Hall, Nicosia, Cyprus More details, including registration and the full programme, will be available soon on the ENDR website.

The European Commission’s Directorate-General for Defence Industry and Space (DG DEFIS) is pleased to announce that the European Defence Fund (EDF) Info Days 2026 will take place on 10–11 March 2026, in a hybrid format, both in Brussels and online. This flagship annual event offers valuable insights into the EDF 2026 calls for proposals, provides the latest programme updates, and supports collaboration through international networking and pitching opportunities. Programme Highlights Day 1 – EDF 2026 Call Presentation DG DEFIS experts will present the new calls, outline recent programme developments, and provide practical guidance for preparing and submitting proposals. Day 2 – International Networking & Pitching Participants will engage in matchmaking sessions, thematic pitching, and the formation of R&D consortia for EDF-funded projects. Investor Sessions Dedicated time for investors and companies to explore funding opportunities, connect, and showcase innovative solutions in defence. This event is intended for potential applicants from public and private entities established in EU Member States and Norway. For details on eligibility, visit the EDF funding eligibility page. Registration Registration will open in mid-December 2025. A link will be provided as soon as available. EDF Info Days 2026 is a key opportunity to gain insights, make connections, and prepare competitive proposals for the upcoming calls.