How to scale a defence tech business: Darkstar to host Scale 100x conference in Kyiv

The European coalition of entrepreneurs and investors, Darkstar, has announced Scale 100x, a conference set to take place in Kyiv this July. The event is designed to help Ukrainian defence tech companies navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses, entering European markets, and integrating into the wider EU and NATO defence ecosystem.

According to the organisers, despite the rapid growth of Ukraine’s defence tech sector, many companies face similar hurdles: transitioning from prototype to serial production, scaling manufacturing processes, securing investment, working with defence procurement systems, and expanding internationally. As a result, some promising technologies struggle to gain the support needed for rapid growth and broader adoption.

Scale 100x aims to help companies bridge the gap between a promising product and a scalable business. Practical sessions and working groups will be led by experienced founders, investors, technical experts, and representatives of the international defence ecosystem.

“Ukrainian companies have already learned how to innovate at a speed unmatched anywhere else in the world,” said Darkstar founder Ragnar Sass. “The next challenge is scaling. We want Ukrainian founders to gain access to the expertise, partnerships, and knowledge required to build companies capable of operating in European markets and strengthening the security of Europe as a whole.”

Topics on the agenda include capability development and CONOPS, production scaling, defence procurement in Ukraine, the EU and NATO countries, international market entry, corporate security, and managing rapid growth. Particular attention will be given to the practical realities of operating within the European defence ecosystem and preparing companies for international expansion.

Unlike traditional conferences, Scale 100x will focus on hands-on discussions aimed at solving specific challenges faced by defence tech companies during the scaling phase. Organisers encourage participants to bring their own cases and questions in order to receive practical guidance from experts and industry peers. The registration form also includes a dedicated section where attendees can submit discussion topics in advance.

Participation is open to founders and senior executives of defence companies. Places are limited, and all applications will be subject to a selection process.

Detailed information and the application form are available via the event registration page. The application deadline is 15 July.

For security reasons, the exact date, venue, agenda, and list of speakers will only be shared with confirmed participants. Registration and verification are required to attend.