EUDIS Defence accelerator welcomes Ukrainian startups for the first time, with €120,000+ on offer

Ukrainian startups will be able to apply for the fourth cohort of the EUDIS Defence Business Accelerator, an EU programme supporting companies developing defence-related solutions. EU Defence and Security has announced that the programme is now open to Ukrainian teams.

The fourth cohort will select 20 companies from EU member states, Norway, and Ukraine that are addressing current defence challenges across three core areas:

• autonomous systems and robotics;
• counter-drone capabilities and protection against mass attacks using low-cost weapons;
• defence manufacturing, maintenance, and logistics.

The 20 selected companies will join an eight-month acceleration programme featuring five in-person training sessions across different European countries. These sessions will offer participants direct engagement with defence industry representatives, military personnel, and investors.

Startups will also receive tailored mentoring, business development support, and €120,000 in non-dilutive funding, with no equity surrender required. The highest-performing participants will be eligible for an additional €50,000 in bonus funding.

The application deadline is 20 November 2026.

The EUDIS Defence Business Accelerator is a European Union programme designed to support startups and dual-use tech firms developing defence solutions. Previous cohorts were restricted to businesses from EU member states and Norway. The fourth cohort marks the first time Ukrainian companies are permitted to participate.