NATO · NATO Science for Peace and Security Programme
This is a thematic special call under the NATO Science for Peace and Security (SPS) Programme, specifically targeting research and innovation in Countering Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS). It funds Multi-Year Projects (typically 24–36 months) developed jointly by scientists and experts from at least one NATO member country and one eligible NATO partner country, working through governmental, academic, or non-profit institutions (for-profit companies are ineligible). Proposals are evaluated by the SPS Office and an Independent Scientific Evaluation Group (ISEG), with awards recommended to the NATO Partnerships and Cooperative Security Committee.
Defence-tech research teams embedded in or partnered with universities, public labs, or non-profits can access NATO-backed grant funding for applied C-UAS research — a rapidly ascending NATO priority given the proliferation of drone threats in modern conflict. The programme provides not only funding but also expert guidance, NATO-level visibility, and pathways to Allied end-users, making it a strong credibility signal for teams building counter-drone capabilities. Co-financing of up to one-third of the grant is possible, giving applicants flexibility in structuring their project budgets.
24 NATO Allies (standalone venture capital fund)
The only sovereign-backed VC dedicated to Alliance defence, security and resilience: patient capital comfortable with defence sales cycles, and a cheque that signals credibility to ministries and co-investors.
NATO / NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA), governed by the Conference of National Armaments Directors (CNAD)
AFSC is the largest and most complex capability procurement effort NATO has undertaken, offering sustained long-term contracting opportunities for defence and deep-tech companies across all 32 Allied nations. Companies working in ISR, unmanned systems, space-based surveillance, AI/data fusion, cloud architectures, and C2 systems are directly in scope for national and multinational development contracts tailored to AFSC requirements. Entering the Realization Stage in 2026 signals that procurement contracts for actual capability delivery—not just studies—are now on the near-term horizon.
The fastest single door into NATO for a dual-use startup: non-dilutive cash, military end-users, test infrastructure, and since 2026 a direct contracting path to Allied ministries via the Rapid Adoption Service.