EU programmes · European Commission, DG CONNECT (Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology)
The Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) is an EU funding programme running 2021–2027 with a total budget exceeding €8.1 billion, designed to accelerate the deployment of advanced digital technologies—including AI, high-performance computing, cybersecurity, semiconductors, and digital skills—across businesses, public administrations, and citizens. It funds large-scale deployment and capacity-building actions, complementing Horizon Europe (which targets research) by bridging mature technologies to real-world uptake. The programme also supports the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) network to assist SMEs and public bodies in their digital transformation.
For defence-tech and dual-use SMEs, DIGITAL offers direct access to EU grants and procurement contracts in strategic areas such as AI, cybersecurity, and semiconductors—technologies with clear defence and security relevance. The EDIH network provides a low-barrier entry point for companies seeking technology testing, skills development, and access to larger project consortia. As calls under the 2025–2027 Work Programme are now open (closing September 2025), companies with deployable digital solutions targeting public-sector or cross-border use cases should evaluate eligibility immediately.
European Commission (DG DEFIS), with EUSPA and the EIF
Space is treated as dual-use across EU funding; CASSINI gives space-defence start-ups an equity pipeline and visibility instruments that stack with EDF and EUDIS applications.
European Investment Fund with the European Commission, under InvestEU
Not a programme you apply to as a company, but it determines which European VCs have fresh defence-mandated capital; track its fund commitments to know who can actually write you a cheque.
European Investment Bank Group
Debt, not grants: the EIB now finances defence companies that banks still avoid, and venture debt from its one-stop shop can extend runway without dilution once you have revenue or strong contracts.