ENDR members

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Electronics

Officially recognised as a cluster by its regional government in April 2017, the Flemish Aerospace Group (FLAG) brings together all of Flanders’ aeronautical services, R&D, maintenance and related ground services and airport infrastructure activities. Its 70 members are involved in the sectors of advanced materials, aeronautics, aerospace, 3D printing, electronics and complex metal alloy structures. With only 10% of its members’ activities arising from defence or dual use, FLAG has a strategy to support more growth in these areas.  While this is not tied to Belgium’s national RIS3, it is linked to its strategic defence vision, issued in 2017, which defines Belgium’s essential security interests and the key enabling technology areas related to them. One of FLAG’s main goals is to increase the competitiveness of the region’s aeronautical industry to double its turnover and increase employment by 50% by 2030 compared to 2014 levels.

Advanced materials, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Energy, Land sector, Maritime, Naval, Photonics, Robotics, ICTs

MecaTech is a Competitiveness Cluster in mechanical engineering based in Isnes, Belgium. MecaTech’s goal is to increase business activity and employment in the Walloon Region. This is achieved through a network of 291 members, all of which are involved in the development of collaborative industrial innovation projects (more than 113 projects so far, generating €316 million in investments). Members include large companies, SMEs, universities as well as research and training centres.  MecaTech works together with Skywin, the Belgian Aerospace Cluster, and NCP Wallonie to meet the emerging technological needs of the defence sector in the Walloon Region. The objective is to position Walloon entities so they can take advantage of new opportunities linked to federal and European defence projects, in addition to ensuring the necessary links with R&D projects executed at the regional Walloon level.

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Energy, Land sector, Maritime, Naval, Photonics, Robotics, Other, Health/Bio-sciences, aerial and space based sensor systems e.g. for environmental monitoring - multispectral (visible and infrared  imaging), ICTs

NCP Wallonie is the official relay of the European Commission in the Wallonia region of Belgium. The agency’s experts help SMEs, research organisations and other regional entities execute European research projects and participate in European R&D framework programmes. For the defence sector in particular, NCP Wallonie acts as the main point of contact when it comes to the European Defence Industrial Development Programme and the European Defence Fund. The agency offers free-of-charge guidance, practical information and assistance on preparing and securing project proposals for these programmes and other defence and security-related European initiatives. NCP Wallonie’s scope of actions also comprises the identification and matching of the most appropriate Walloon partners for European projects – whether SMEs, companies, research centres, university labs or other Belgian defence actors.

Naval defence, Marine / Submarine Technology, R&D

SEA Naval is a permanent working group of SEA Europe, The Shipyards’ & Maritime Equipment Association of Europe, representing the interests of European Naval Shipyards. The current members of SEA Naval are: Assonave, Damen, Fincantieri, GICAN, Lürssen, Naval Group, Navantia, Saab, Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, and VSM. SEA Naval provides a forum for the European Naval industry to discuss matters of common interest to the naval sector, notably defining a common position towards the programmes of the European Defence Fund. The Group supports European institutions with expertise when needed and organises joint participation in EU-funded projects. The goal of SEA Naval is to provide the EU and its Member States with the expertise, technology and capabilities required to guarantee their freedom of action. European naval integrators are the cornerstones of EU strategic autonomy in the naval domain by designing, integrating and building the most complex and expensive assets in service. They provide the platforms that ensure Europe’s maritime Lines of Communication, its global naval force projection and the protection of Europe’s coastlines. Hence, they are key contributors to the defence capabilities of Europe.

SKYWIN Wallonia is a cluster focused on 5 sectors and 6 technological axes. The sectors cover civil aeronautics, space, drones, defence and engineering. The 6 technological axes consist of: composite materials and industrial processes; metallic materials and industrial processes; embedded systems; airport services; space and drone’s applications and systems; and modelling and simulation. Recently, SKYWIN and MecaTech (2 competitive clusters of Wallonia) have united to meet the new technological needs of the Defence sector in Wallonia (complex and intelligent systems). The objective is to position Walloon entities that are active in the defence sector with regards to new opportunities that could emerge from federal and European defence projects, also by insuring the necessary links with R&D projects executed at the regional Walloon level. For the defence sector in particular, SKYWIN acts as the main point of contact for Wallonia region when it comes to R&D programmes (on European, national or regional level). SKYWIN has 148 members, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), research operators, training centres, large companies, agencies and more. The defence sector in Wallonia represents some 4,000 direct jobs and more than €1 billion  of annual turnover.

Imaging systems, Advanced materials, Cybersecurity, Electronics, aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, counter UAV/UAS, high reliability semiconductor components, Defence, ICTs, Drones, Dual Technologies, IoT, Command and control, Eletronics & Communication, information - decision support- and combat systems, R&D, Telecommunications, Defence and Dual-use technologies

DefTech North Cluster / City of Oulu is a defence and dual-use technology cluster coordinated by BusinessOulu, the official business development organisation of the City of Oulu, Finland. We operate as a regional cluster and ecosystem platform, not as a company. Our mandate is to develop, coordinate, and internationalise the defence-related innovation ecosystem of Northern Finland, in alignment with national and European defence priorities.

What is DefTech North Cluster?

DefTech North is a regional cluster of excellence focused on advanced defence and dual-use technologies, built on Oulu’s long-established strengths in ICT, wireless connectivity, microelectronics, and applied research. The cluster brings together SMEs, scale-ups, larger industry players, research organisations, and test environments into a coherent platform serving defence capability development and European security objectives.

Our core technological focus areas include:

• Military-grade connectivity and communications (5G/6G, resilient and secure networks)
• Edge AI and distributed intelligence for contested and data-intensive environments
• Unmanned systems and drones (UAV/UAS), including sensing, autonomy, and command-and-control
• Chip design and high-reliability microelectronics, including components for defence-critical use
• Advanced materials and components for demanding operational environments
• Cybersecurity and cyber-resilient systems across platforms and infrastructures

Role and activities

DefTech North Cluster operates at the operational level, translating regional technological strengths into defence-relevant solutions and cooperation. Our key roles include:

• Coordinating the regional defence and dual-use ecosystem across industry, research, and public actors
• Supporting SMEs and non-traditional defence companies in entering defence markets and understanding defence requirements
• Facilitating R&D, testing, and piloting activities, particularly in connectivity, autonomous systems, and cyber-secure architectures
• Acting as a bridge between regional capabilities and European defence initiatives, programmes, and networks
• Contributing to Europe’s defence innovation capacity, resilience, and strategic autonomy, especially from a Northern and Arctic-operational perspective

DefTech North Cluster is open to Finnish and international partners, including defence companies, technology providers, research organisations, and public stakeholders. The cluster is particularly relevant for actors seeking expertise in future connectivity, edge intelligence, and resilient digital defence systems.

Cybersecurity, Energy, Health/Bio-sciences, Defence, Comprehensive safety and security, National security and defence industry, Drones, 3D Printing, Artificial Intelligence, Advanced materials and Technologies, quantum, R&D, Defence and Dual-use technologies, Health, Telecommunications, Simulation and training

Arctic Performance Network is a defense and dual-use cluster in Jyväskylä, Central Finland. It's main goal is to improve the operating conditions for companies and to find new market opportunities in the rapidly developing defense and dual-use sector

Jyväskylä's natural regional strengths are in the areas of soldier’s optimal performance, arctic resilience, and cyber security.

The project brings together companies, universities, research institutes and public actors through networking and joint development.

The aim of the project is to grow companies in the domestic and international markets and to support the renewal of their operations by supporting their growth and internationalization capabilities, business expertise, and investments and RDI activities in ecosystem networks that promote growth, renewal, and productivity.

The work is based on network development, and hackathons, innovation competitions, and accelerator activities can be used to speed up the emergence and commercialization of new ideas and cooperation between public and private entities. Leading companies will be challenged to participate in challenge competitions. The project also promotes the opportunities of the circular economy in the field of defense and dual use.

The project also promotes networking between Jyväskylä and companies with Nordic and possibly European defense and dual-use networks. Jyväskylä's appeal and visibility in the field will be increased, and expertise will be shared between networks, complementing each other's skills.

Advanced materials, Energy, Health/Bio-sciences, Photonics, Robotics, aerial and space based sensor systems e.g. for environmental monitoring - multispectral (visible and infrared  imaging), laser based and lidar systems, Comprehensive safety and security, Smart secure societies, Dual Technologies, Smart Specialisation Strategy, RIS3 / RIS4, Augmented / Virtual Reality, 3D Printing, IoT, Big Data, Autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, Optics, R&D, Vehicles & Vessels, Energy and ICT, SMEs, Renewable energy, Digital transformation, Materials and components, Simulation and training

The Comprehensive Security Cluster North Savo is a regionally operating cluster connecting stakeholders on a multi-disciplinary and multi-actor platform. Creating the cluster is a strategic initiative by the North Savo Regional Council, a regional public authority comprising 19 municipalities in Eastern Finland. The long-term aim is to cultivate collaboration and knowledge sharing within and between the six regions in Eastern Finland, as well as creating national-level impact.

North Savo’s defined Smart Specialization Strategy (S3) priorities align with core elements of building and maintaining a secure and resilient region, such as Machine and Energy Technology, Food Systems, Wellbeing Technology, Smart Water Systems, and Bio and Circular Economy. Comprehensive Security has been selected as one of the four cross-cutting S3 themes. Improving defence and dual-use related industry capabilities in regional networks is a central focus of this cross-cutting theme.

Aligned with the Finnish Comprehensive Security model and NATO’s Multi Domain Operations concept, the Comprehensive Security Cluster aims at regionally safeguarding the vital functions of society. The central focus is strengthening the economy, infrastructure, and security of supply at the regional level. North Savo’s economy is reformed by cluster activities since they steer development work and RDI resources, aiming to improve business life's adaptability to change, the security of supply in regional value chains, and the operational capacity of critical infrastructures. The cluster enables effective internationalization and access to comprehensive security related expertise and solutions.

The North Savo region undertakes robust foresight activities to ensure effective strategic planning and actionable roadmaps based on data and evidence. The Comprehensive Security Cluster strengthens the regional business ecosystems which are formed around the strong cutting-edge companies in, for example, Machine and Energy Technology and Food Systems. These business ecosystems form a core for the region’s vital impact on National Security. Other regional spreadheads, such as Smart Water Systems, Wellbeing Technology, and Bio and Circular Economy function interconnectedly with these core activities. The strong academic and applied research, especially in the fields of photonics, toxicology, and boarder studies, form a robust foundation for knowledge driven development of cluster activities.

In addition to regional level activities, the cluster is involved in cross-regional and national initiatives related to building resilience and comprehensive security in Finland. The over-arching vision is to bring Finnish competence in the field to an international level together with other regions and national actors.

Cybersecurity, Robotics, Defence, ICTs, Drones, Dual Technologies

(DEFINE) builds a world-class defence and security sector network to create new know-how and accelerate innovations in the sector. DEFINE is an open network that brings together The Finnish Defence Forces, startups and more mature companies, educational institutions and research institutes, as well as other stakeholders in Finland and from abroad.

The aim of the network is to accelerate the innovation and development activities of the participants, increase the participating companies’ turnover and employment growth. DEFINE has created first defence focused Innovation Hub in Finland, started several defence business activities and runs own business accelerator which is open for companies from whole EU region.

DEFINE is originated by the City of Riihimäki, Häme University of Applied Sciences HAMK, City of Hämeenlinna, Forssan Yrityskehitys Oy, Millog Oy, and Sako Finland Oy. A significant part of the funding comes from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through development projects as well as from other public and private sources.

Cybersecurity, Aerospace, Advanced materials, Electronics, Energy, Photonics, Robotics, spacecraft systems R&D and systems engineering, aerial and space based sensor systems e.g. for environmental monitoring - multispectral (visible and infrared  imaging), high reliability semiconductor components, space/aerial-born sensors data processing, Space & Security, Imaging systems, Biosciences, Disruptive technologies, Air and missile defence, Lasers, Telecommunications, Force protection and mobility, Materials and components, Cyber, Advanced passive and active sensors

Defence Tech Hub is a world-class innovation hub at the forefront of next-generation defence technologies in Espoo, Finland. Based in the dynamic Otaniemi area, Defence Tech Hub connects you to a network of deep tech companies, research institutions, and global partners. The hub accelerates the disruption of quantum computing, space-based intelligence, cybersecurity, microelectronics, advanced sensing, and more.

What is Defence Tech Hub?

Defence Tech Hub is a network of cutting-edge Finnish startups and research organisations. Pioneering companies like ICEYE, the global leader in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite technology, and IQM, Europe's leading quantum computing company, form the hub's core. The hub also connects you to top R&D players working in key strategic areas of defence, including:

• VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland
• Aalto University
• NATO DIANA accelerator

Together, the players form a collaborative platform for testing, scaling, and commercialising defence deep tech solutions that meet the ever-evolving requirements of modern security environments.

For whom?

Defence Tech Hub welcomes both Finnish and global defence players. Startups, companies, investors, and research organisations can join the hub as partners. Also, if you're a non-traditional defence tech company looking for ways to enter the defence market, Defence Tech Hub is for you.

Why cooperate? 

Defence Tech Hub offers a gateway to Finland's most advanced defence innovation ecosystem, accelerating the disruption in the defence tech field. Join us!

Get in touch

Defence Tech Hub is open to new initiatives, partners, and companies in the defence technology field. Contact our team to explore collaboration opportunities.

Electronics, Land sector, Comprehensive safety and security, Drones, Materials and components, CBRN-biotech and human factors, Renewable energy, SMEs, Maintenance, Defence and Dual-use technologies, Vehicles & Vessels, R&D, Autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, 3D Printing, Security, Energy and ICT, Health

The world's political situation has created a lot of market opportunities domestically and internationally in the defense equipment sector. Finland's accession to NATO has also opened up new opportunities for companies. The formation of a company group in the defense supplies industry has started in South Savo in the spring of 2024 on a company-led basis, and about 70 companies are now involved in the scope of operations. The scope of the network and the need to develop operations, advocates the coordination of operations in the future as its own development project. The work carried out in the project enables individual member companies to learn from each other, expand networks and create new business opportunities in Finland and internationally. The goal of the project is to jointly build an offer for the defense equipment industry and to develop companies' capabilities to participate in international projects. In addition, the goal is to activate companies for new R&D activities. Official meetings are often difficult for an individual company to implement, but a group of companies is an interesting partner for the public sector as well.

Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Photonics, Robotics, Health/Bio-sciences, ICTs

The ALPHA RLH competitiveness cluster represents 280 organisations (of which more than 170 are SMEs) focused on photonics, laser, microwaves and hyper frequencies for the defence and aerospace sectors. This translates into the following key figures for 2019:1,063 projects valued at €1.5 million, 93 start-ups created, more than 2,500 jobs created, along with an additional 10,000 indirect jobs. The majority of ALPHA RLH members’ activities fall in defence and dual-use areas; namely: health, mobility, energy, ICT, aeronautics and space. The cluster assists its members in showcasing their know-how, products and services in the defence field on an international level – attending the Le Bourget (for example, SAPHYR) Paris Air Show and Eurosatory exhibition. ALPHA RLH is a member of the Aeronautics, Space and Defence cluster in Nouvelle Aquitaine, which has become an international reference in a range of strategic sectors from commercial aviation to military aircraft and business aviation to space launchers or maintenance. ALPHA RLH’s regional strategic approach is also linked to France’s national strategy for smart specialisation and digital innovation hubs.

ASTech Paris Region, Aeronautics Space and Defence, Paris Region Competitiveness Cluster, Business Aviation, Space, Propulsion and Equipment

ASTech Paris Region was created in 2007 as a non-profit organisation financed by the State, Paris Region and its members. It is among the 3 french competitiveness clusters in the Aeronautics, Space and Defense sectors. Its role is to increase within Paris Region its position of European industry leader in Business Aviation, Space Launch, Propulsion and Equipment sectors through innovation by:

• Giving a new impulse to Paris Region Research and Innovation while supporting the Aeronautics, Space and Defense Industries;
• Offering SMEs new opportunities for innovation;
• Preparing the technological breakthroughs of tomorrow in partnership with SMEs, Research and Technology Organizations.

Its role is to give better visibility to Paris Region industrial and research fabric as well as to develop the attractiveness of the area. In addition, it strives to consolidate and grow the 100,000 jobs in the aerospace industry within Paris Region, in particular for the industry and R&D.

Facts and figures:

• Number of companies: 317 members within ASTech cluster including 133 SMEs and 109 Major Groups (including ArianeGroup, Dassault Aviation, SAFRAN, Airbus Defense & Space, Airbus Helicopter, Collins Aerospace, MBDA)
• Number of research institutes: 43 (including ONERA, CNES, several CNRS labs, ESTACA, IPSA, CentraleSupélec, ISAE-Supméca, Paris Saclay University, Polytechnique)
• Number of public authorities: 9
• Other cluster members: 23
• Number of employees of all aerospace actors: More than 100 000 employees linked to the Industry sector within 2 000 establishments in Paris Region 

Its Skills/services to the members:

• Animation and coordination of Paris Region’s ASD ecosystem;
• Participation in active technological business intelligence (support for collaborative R&D projects, identifying projects for members or joining EU consortia);
• Organisation of events and networking such as Paris Space Week, ASD Alliance Days;
• Implementing webinars and training support actions;
• Support to business development.

Aeronautics, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Maritime, Naval, Photonics, ICTs

Bretagne Développement Innovation (BDI) is the regional development and innovation agency for the Brittany region.  With 15 years’ experience in dealing with European projects, 20% of all the agency's activities are in the area of defence and dual use. These are focused on aeronautics, cybersecurity, electronics, ICT, the maritime and naval sectors, and on photonics. BDI has a strategy for defence and dual use technology stakeholders (as it does for other industrial sectors), supporting specifically SMEs. It maintains links with other defence-related organisations and regions across the EU in the cybersecurity, maritime and naval areas. These include Northern Defence Industries and Marine South East of the UK, Denmark’s CenSec  and the Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence in Tallinn.

Aerospace, Space & Security, Photonics, Electronics, Lifecycle support for military systems

The Region Centre-Val de Loire is a French administrative region located in the middle of the country. It is composed by six Departments: Cher, Eure-et-Loir, Indre, Indre-et-Loire, Loir-et-Cher and Loiret. The region benefits from a strong military and industrial presence, characterised by:

• 281 industrial establishments linked to the Defence Technological and Industrial Base (BITD), employing 21,387 people
• Over 17,500 personnel, both civilian and military, assigned to Ministry of the Armed Forces units, 75% of whom are military;
• A significant concentration in the Cher department, which accounts for 1/3 of the regional defence sector workforce.

Several major defence prime contractors are in the region, including MBDA France, KNDS, THALES LAS France, SAFRAN AEROSYSTEMS, THALES AVIONICS, DAHER AEROSPACE. These firms rely on a dynamic network of SMEs and mid-size companies such as MICHELIN, CILAS, AUXITROL ADVANCED SENSORS, INDRAERO SIREN, SKF, RADIALL, TOUTENKAMION, and many others.

The Region’s industrial base demonstrates strong competencies in metalworking, precision engineering, sensors, embedded electronics, advanced batteries, and high-performance materials. This diversity sustains a comprehensive, cross-disciplinary, and high-skill defence ecosystem.

The regional cluster AEROCENTRE, with nearly 150 members in 2025, acts as a key driver for innovation and cooperation in the aerospace, defence and space sectors. It fosters technological excellence and supports businesses in achieving certifications such as AERO EXCELLENCE.

• To strengthen its contribution to national defence and industrial sovereignty, the Region has signed a regional economic partnership agreement with the French Ministry of the Armed Forces and its key entities (DGA, EMA, SGA). This convention aims to:
  Support 25 SMEs in integrating the defence supply chain;
• Enhance industrial performance and innovation capacity;
• Reinforce employment and training aligned with defence sector needs;
• Contribute to France’s strategic autonomy and European security.

The Region supports defence-related businesses through its competencies in economic development, research and innovation, training, higher education, health and mobility. It also promotes the attractiveness of the territory for talent and investment.

Safety, SMEs, Cybersecurity, MRO, Land, Aerospace, Naval, Artificial Intelligence, Defence

The EDEN Cluster (European Defense Economic Network) is the voice of Defense, Security and Safety SMEs. Founded in 2008 by business leaders for business leaders, it became a national cluster supported by local, national authorities and institutional players. EDEN brings together an ecosystem of over 100 SMEs throughout France. These companies total 7,500 direct jobs and more than one billion euros in turnover, the majority of which comes from exports. Six different thematic task forces allow synergies areas of activity: Safety chain: Cyber & Infrastructure / Mobility & Energy / Depollution and remediation / Operational maintenance, expertise and subcontracting / Robotics and drones / Operator equipment. By pooling their know-how and the most innovative technologies, EDEN members offer solutions at competitive prices. This community, combining technical expertise and perfect knowledge of operational needs, makes the offer of its members more coherent, both in the civilian and military fields.

Advanced materials, Aerospace

The « Association for the development and promotion of the European ceramic center” also known as European Cluster of Ceramics is a competitiveness cluster specialised in ceramics and related materials and processes. The cluster represents 119 manufacturers, 36 laboratories and 5 RTOs from France, Portugal, Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, and Germany. The cluster is part of other associations including ERMA (European Raw Material Advanced) and Cerame-Unie. Furthermore, the European Ceramic Cluster actively participates and influences the regional roadmap on advanced materials. With the aim of fostering innovation within its sector, the cluster's strategy is defined around four strategic markets:

• Luxury and Design (Tableware, jewelry, cosmetic)
• Energy systems (Mechanical components, buildings and refractories)
• Electronics, Electrical and optical components
• Protection of people and environment (bioceramics, filters, armouring).

In the area of dual use/defence the cluster covers high performance materials like transparency ceramics for ballistic overprotection and aeronautic applications, surface treatment, etc. The cluster aims at promoting collaborative R&D projects by gathering companies, public research labs and academic institutions with a view to market, new products and services. The cluster also aims to help companies develop their innovation and stimulate their economic development, particularly in the export sector, in particular through its participation in the Sirena'Mic-project, which is funded by the region of Nouvelle Aquitaine. This programme provides support to the international development of ceramics companies and specifically targets the aeronautics, space and defence markets in Europe and the US.

Shipyards, Marine equipment, Coastal infrastructure, Maritime Security, Maritime safety, Marine renewable energies, offshore industry, Naval defence, Maintenance, Refit, dismantling activities

GICAN (Groupement des Industries de Construction et Activités Navales) is a professional Business Union that brings together French industrialists in the naval and maritime sector.

Today, GICAN brings together nearly 270 companies in the naval industry including shipyards, systems manufacturers, integrators, equipment manufacturers, design offices and engineering and service companies that work on the design, manufacture, maintenance, modernization, refit and dismantling of ships, submarines, drones, air-maritime means, marine renewable energies and everything related to the exploration and development of the oceans.

The purpose of this Association is to promote and defend the interests of member companies. He is qualified to engage and follow up with representatives of other industries or other groups, French and European, all issues likely to influence the development of the naval and maritime industry.

Advanced materials, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Land sector, Photonics, Robotics, Other

GICAT is the French Land and Air-Land Defence and Security Industry Association. It brings together a cluster of over 280 members, representing more than 23,000 direct jobs and a EUR 7.7 billion turnover. GICAT has 7 committees promoting best practices and development in key areas: Human Resources; Communication; SMEs; Security; Research, Technology and Innovation; Support and Services; and International Affairs. Around 69% of GICAT companies are SMEs, many of which are based in regions that face challenges when it comes to attracting skilled workers. Furthermore, more than half of the members are dual, working in both security and defence sectors. At a national level, GICAT works closely with the Land Army, the French Defence Procurement Agency and Security Forces. GICAT’s international outreach relies on its subsidiary COGES, through the organisation of world-class trade exhibitions, including: Eurosatory in France, Platinum Security in Monaco, ShieldAfrica in Ivory Coast and ExpoDefensa in Colombia.

Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, greentechs, industries, Materials and components, Space

Grand E-Nov+ is the regional agency in charge of innovation and attractiveness of foreign investments. Established in 2018 further the setting of the Region Grand Est (merger of Alsace, Lorraine, and Champagne Ardennes regions), Grand E-Nov+ is present in the 8 main regional metropolitan areas in Grand Est. On the topic of innovation, the objectives of the Agency are to generate more added value and employment in companies and territories through the development of innovative products, processes, and services with a focus on digital, environmental, and industrial transitions. Grand E-Nov+ is also in charge of the management of the regional start-up’s accelerator SCALE E-NOV and also promotes cooperation between innovative companies and local territories (Grand Testeur). More and more companies develop dual innovations for example in health with the development of platforms to predict the bio-toxicity or digital innovation applied in cyber-security. ISL (Institut Saint Louis), the French-German research center in Defence as well as a large network of industrial companies actives on the defence/civil markets are active in Region Grand Est.

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Electronics, Energy

Focused on energy, electronics and advanced materials for the defence and aerospace sectors, Normandie Aerospace (NAE) brings together some 110 organisations under its roof. These form a regional network of large industrial groups, airports, a military base, SMEs, research laboratories and universities. Together they represent employment of 14,200 personnel and contribute EUR 2.2 billion to Normandy’s economy. Half of NAE members’ activities fall in the defence and dual-use areas. The cluster promotes these with strategies specifically geared to dual-use development and to support SMEs and larger organisations regarding market opportunities, both within Normandy and abroad. NAE’s regional strategic approach is also linked to France’s national strategy for smart specialisation. The cluster works closely with Normandy’s academic institutions for the training and recruitment of talent for the region’s defence and aerospace industries. Finally, NAE assists its members with quality certification for their defence and dual-use goods and services, while promoting the latter at international events such as the Paris Air Show and Eurosatory exhibition.

Photonics, ICTs

Located in Marseille, the industrial cluster of OPTITEC carries out a quarter of France’s photonics-based research and development. Its members’ main activities are focused on photonics and ICT technologies, with 25% of these linked to dual use applications. The cluster has close links to its region’s network of universities and government research agencies and related facilities. Some 2,000 researchers are distributed across that network, which includes advanced laboratories involved in major international research programmes. Small enterprises make up 65% of OPTITEC’s 200 members. The cluster has a solid record of fostering start-up growth, having supported the launch of 94 start-ups in the past 10 years, 90% of which have made it past the crucial five-year survival mark. Among OPTITEC’s future goals are to develop an ecosystem favouring the growth of SMEs where it will promote joint projects between them to be more competitive on national and international markets. OPTITEC also aims to enhance its cooperation with other clusters and stakeholders elsewhere in Europe such as Germany, Italy, Ireland, Spain and Sweden.

Land, Maritime, Space, Telecommunications, Biosciences, Health, Industry 4.0, Energy, Lasers, Fibres, Imaging systems

Photonics Bretagne is a Photonics Innovation Hub that federates and represents photonics in Brittany, France.
Unlike most cluster structures, Photonics Bretagne is both a Cluster and a Research and Technology Organisation (RTO).
Located in the birth region of modern telecommunication, the RTO has a historical expertise in special optical fibres and specialises in the design and manufacture of custom fibres such as microstructured  (air-clad, nonlinear PCF, hollow-core, endlessly single-mode…), multicore, few mode, active LMA fibres, and components: silica capillaries, stress rods, Fan-in/Fan-out, fibre tapers… In addition, the RTO recently expanded the team to include an expertise in the development of custom imaging systems.
The cluster gathers more than 120 members ranging from start-ups to large companies, and includes all the photonics-related research groups in the region. Photonics Bretagne aims to support innovation and contributes to the industrial and technological development of its members and of the regional SMEs in many application sectors, including Space, Defense and Security. To this end, Photonics Bretagne facilitate or initiate collaborative projects from the regional to the European level, but also takes part in coordination projects with the goal to serve its industry members and distribute cascade funding.

Maritime

Pole Mer Bretagne Atlantic (PMBA) is a Sea Innovation Cluster established in 2005, located in Brest (Brittany, France). Defence as well as maritime security and safety are among their domains of interest. With a membership of about 350 (SMEs, large companies, academics and professional organisations), PMBA aims at facilitating the emergence of collaborative research and development projects, and support the growth of its member companies, particularly by placing new products, services and processes resulting from research on the market. Within the above context, dual use and defence-related activities are carried out to foster innovation in various sectors such as aeronautics, aerospace, electronics, ICT or robotics, all dedicated to maritime purposes. PMBA’s territory hosts key players within the defence field, with well-established companies like Thales, Naval Group, ECA, as well as a significant part of the French naval assets with the Oceanic Strategic Force (FOST), including nuclear submarines. PMBA has close links with other French, European and international clusters.

Maritime, Cybersecurity, Energy, Naval, Robotics, counter UAV/UAS, Defence, Space & Security, National security and defence industry, Marine / Submarine Technology, Drones, Dual Technologies, Security, Artificial Intelligence, Advanced materials and Technologies, information - decision support- and combat systems, Autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, Underwater technology, Materials technology developed or refined for military use, R&D, Shipyards, Marine equipment, Disruptive technologies, Simulation and training, sea, Marine & Maritime Systems, Naval defence, Defence and Dual-use technologies

Labeled by the French government in July 2005 as a world-class Competitiveness Cluster, the Pôle Mer Méditerranée aims to sustainably develop the maritime and coastal economy in the Mediterranean basin, in Europe, and worldwide. In the South Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Occitanie, and Corsica regions, the cluster brings together over 500 members, including scientific and economic stakeholders, around maritime and coastal themes with significant societal and environmental challenges. The mission of Pôle Mer Méditerranée is to support innovation in the maritime field and to contribute to the sustainable development of the Mediterranean. It supports companies in the development of their innovative projects, by offering them access to a network, resources and specialist skills.

As a true driver of innovation and competitiveness, the Pôle Mer Méditerranée structures its strategy around six Strategic Action Areas: Maritime defense, security, and safety, Naval and nautism, Marine energy and mineral resources, Marine biological resources, Coastal and marine environment, Ports, infrastructure, and logistics.

The Pôle Mer Méditerranée is the catalyst to boost business development with maritime innovations, both in civilian and military domains.

More than 50% of its 500+ members are involved in Defense activities, whether they are major companies such as Naval Group, THALES, IxBlue, SeaOwl, CNIM or more modest companies. The privileged contacts that the Pôle Mer Méditerranée maintains with the Direction Générale de l’Armement, the Agence de l’Innovation de la Défense and the French Navy are essential assets for the greatest benefit of its members.

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Land sector, Maritime, Robotics, ICTs

PRIMUS Défense & Sécurité supports the structuring and development of the defence & security sector in the Occitanie region. They support companies in conquering new markets and diversifying their activities in the dual use field. This support results in the search for national, European, and international tenders and grants. PRIMUS aims to support SMEs (amounting to 70% of its members), however, larger companies (ETI) supported the initiative by joining the cluster to improve the dialogue between SMEs & ETI to develop businesses. PRIMUS brings around 50 organisations together, which represent employment of 6,000 personnel and contribute to €800 Million to Occitanie’s economy. The Cluster works closely with the French Ministry of Defence and Interior for enhance the links and the sharing of good practices.

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Drones, Photonics, Robotics, ICTs

The Region-Nouvelle Aquitaine is a French administrative region located in Southwestern France, and formed in 2015 from the merger of the regions of Aquitaine, Poitou-Charentes and Limousin. With a surface area of almost 84,000 km2, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the largest French region in the country. The region is home to just over 6 million inhabitants spread over 16 departments. The capital of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is Bordeaux. The President of the region is Alain Rousset (PS), who has been President of the former Aquitaine region since 1998 and President of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine since its creation.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine’s smart specialisation strategy (S3) includes, among others, the following sectors: ASD, Digital, Electronics, Materials, Photonics & Microwaves, and Energy storage. In total, the ASD sector represents more than 40 000 industrial jobs in about 550 companies, from OEMs to SMEs.

In the field of Defence, the Region works closely with its regional ecosystem: State administrations, training institutions, and 4 Competitiveness clusters (Aerospace Valley, AlphaRLH, Ceramic Cluster and ID4Mobility).

Aeronautics, Aerospace, Electronics, Robotics, ICTs

SAFE cluster is one of the key actors involved in the implementation of security and safety of the PACA Region's smart specialisation strategy (South East of France). Its activities revolve entirely around dual use and defence-related activities in  aeronautics, aerospace, electronics, ICT and robotics. SAFE supports 600 affiliated organisations and SMEs via smart specialisation and other approaches to technological innovation to produce solutions applicable to critical infrastructure protection, the armed forces, civil disaster response, space, air platforms and autonomous systems. The cluster coordinates closely with the French defence and interior ministries to evaluate the potential of research and technology, and to promote innovation partnerships. SAFE has links in the fields of CBRNE, ICT and aerospace to other clusters, such as The Hague Security Delta, Denmark’s CenSec, the Munich Security Network (Sicherheitsnetzwerk München), Pôle SCS (Secured Communicating Solutions), and Pôle Mer Mediterranée.

Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Maritime, Naval, Photonics, ICTs

The defence sector, together with the aeronautics, space and naval sectors is one of the 7 domains of excellence identified by the region SUD Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in its strategy for the regional economic development. In this region, the defence sector represents nearly 50,000 military and civilian jobs. SUD Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur is the second largest French region active in the field of defence, just behind Ile de France, with its defence industry representing 15% of its total turnover of €6 billion. Defence in the region is strongly linked to the naval sector, due to the location of 1 of the 2 French arsenals in Toulon. However, the regional ecosystem is expanding more and more to other sectors, in particular aeronautics and space. Specific expertise can be found in SUD Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in the fields of drones, robotics and embedded systems, in addition to specific technical fields necessary for the ecosystem (modelling, shipbuilding, logistics, etc.). Its regional ecosystem is built around organisations covering the whole value chain, in particular due to the activities of 4 Clusters bringing together all the expertise related to aerospace and naval sectors: SAFE on security, aeronautics and space; Pôle Mer Méditerranée on maritime safety and security; Optitec on optics and imaging; and SCS Cluster on ICT and cybersecurity.

Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Energy, Maritime, Naval, Robotics, Health/Bio-sciences, ICTs

Based near Toulon, the System Factory cluster promotes a wide range of industrial sectors: aerospace, cybersecurity, health, energy & environment, naval and agriculture. These are supported by an equally diverse array of dual-use activities in the areas of big data, sensors, machine-human interfaces, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems & robotics, systems engineering, communication and the internet-of-things (IoT). The cluster has a strategy to spur more cross-fertilisation between defence and security, with special emphasis on technology transfers from the region’s SMEs and research laboratories to all sectors – to enhance the re-cycling of existing technologies (i.e., those at TRL=9) into other projects.

Defence, Disruptive technologies, Space & Security, Comprehensive safety and security

BASED is the official Digital Hub Security & Defense (within the de:hub initiative by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK).

The Digital Hub Initiative is a unique network of 25 digital innovation hubs across Germany. It fosters collaboration between SMEs, corporates, startups, and researchers to drive digital transformation and build future-ready ecosystems.

Since autumn 2024, BASED has been part of this initiative, with a strong focus on building a comprehensive ecosystem for dual-use and defence startups, industry, academia and investors. BASED supports outstanding entrepreneurs developing cutting-edge defence-related technologies and helps accelerate their growth through tailored programs and strategic partnerships with experts, investors, and industry stakeholders – all with the goal of strengthening societal resilience.

BASED specializes in empowering startups from across Europe: the goal is to provide an independent platform through which these companies can connect with key ecosystem players via formats such as master classes, startup programs, bootcamps, networking events, testing opportunities, demo days, and more – always with a clear focus: fast-tracking innovation to market readiness.

aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Electronics, Cybersecurity, Energy, Health/Bio-sciences, Land sector, Maritime, Robotics

Bayern Innovativ is the innovation agency of the federal state of Bavaria in Germany. It works closely in conjunction with the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs and supports companies in realising their innovations. It provides a wide range of services: in addition to regular events, Bayern Innovativ offers funding advice, innovation management, patent searches and much more.

As an innovation platform for defence technologies, the TechHUB Security and Defence brings together the portfolio of Bayern Innovativ and a broad network of companies.

The TechHUB network already includes more than 150 companies from the defence industry - from young start-ups to the largest traditional companies. It advises on relevant funding opportunities (especially from the EU), initiates joint collaborative projects, networks potential co-operation partners and supports companies from outside the industry in their entry into the defence market. As a hub it also acts as an interface to many other relevant clusters and networks.”

Aeronautics, Aerospace

With a history stretching back to the beginning of manned flight, aerospace is a vital economic sector in southwestern Germany. Its voice is represented by Forum Aerospace Baden-Wuerttemberg (Forum Luft- und Raumfahrt Baden-Württemberg e.V.) or LR BW. Linking industry, technology and policy in the sector, LR BW serves the region’s diverse mix of world-class aerospace companies and its joined-up value chains of small and medium-sized companies. Its members’ collective investment in R&D is high, at nearly 18 percent of their total turnover of EUR 4.8 billion while defence and dual use activities account for around 30 percent of that amount. The cluster does not have a specific strategy to support those activities or its SMEs. Nor has it yet to fully develop links to other defence-related organisations or regions across the EU. However, LR BW is a member of the European Aerospace Cluster Partnership which fosters networking and joint projects among its participating clusters. LR BW also belongs to the national association of German aerospace industries (known as BDLI) as well as Germany’s national “Supply Chain Excellence Initiative”, which promotes the country globally as a competitive location for aviation investment and production.

Advanced materials, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Energy, Land sector

The GSW-Netzwerk e.V. is a cluster of mainly SMEs and research institutes based in Düsseldorf, Germany. In modern society, civil security with all its components and military defence cannot really be separated from each other, or rather they have enormous intersections. For some time now, GSW has therefore borrowed the term "Secure Societies" from the EC's Horizon 2020 programme. To shape this, we have developed a "Holistic Security Model" which includes all aspects of comprehensive security. This includes law enforcement and defence; disaster prevention and relief; IT/cyber; and natural resources and energy. For our members - primarily SMEs - topics such as "dual use" and "sustainability" play a major role by nature. GSW has links to other defence-related organisations or regions across the EU, in particular with EDEN, the Defence, Safety and Security Cluster, based in Lyon.  GSW is however committed to increasing EU-Defence Capabilities and is open to all contacts from and cooperation with similar organisations with similar goals in all EU.

Hamburg Aviation e.V. focuses on Industry 4.0, cybersecurity, aerospace, robotics, aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, 3D Printing.

About HAMBURG AVIATION e.V.

As part of the City of Hamburg’s strategic economic support for key industrial sectors, the Hamburg Aviation cluster agency brings together businesses, research, academia and public policy.

The aim of the cluster: to ensure not only the ongoing economic success of the aviation industry but also to support it in its transformation towards a more environmentally friendly future.

Responding to the needs of the members and partners of the cluster, Hamburg Aviation e.V. helps its members develop solutions to the challenges facing the industry in a focussed and effective way.

Dedicated teams for sustainable aviation, international relations, skills and careers, urban air mobility, cabin excellence and communications work with the members of the cluster to support their business, develop skills and network with organisations at regional, national and international levels

In response to the cluster members’ growing interest in the defence sector, Hamburg Aviation e.V. is also initiating events and processes to support companies in gaining access to defence markets.

Point of contact

• Ralf Gust, Managing Director  - ralf [dot] gusthamburg-aviation [dot] com (ralf[dot]gust[at]hamburg-aviation[dot]com)
• Niklas Schilling, Manager International Affairs - Niklas [dot] Schillinghamburg-aviation [dot] com (Niklas[dot]Schilling[at]hamburg-aviation[dot]com)

Defence, SMEs

In 2016, the seven Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CCIs) in Lower Saxony founded the association IHK Niedersachsen (IHKN) (CCI Lower Saxony). Since then, we have represented the interests of the member companies of these CCIs to politicians and administrators by engaging in and contributing to political discussions, issuing publications and statements in the legislative process, and producing corresponding media content. We are committed to ongoing constructive dialogue and cooperation with economic and social partners in Lower Saxony.

With over 520,000 CCI companies, the IHKN represents a wide range of businesses. These include defence corporations such as Rheinmetall, as well as numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) whose products can be used in both the civilian and military sectors (dual use).

In collaboration with the seven Chambers of Commerce and Industry, IHKN has established a working group on security and defence policy, in which the chambers' security and defence policy experts regularly exchange information and know-how. IHKN also functions as an initiator and catalyst for raising awareness among businesses regarding their crisis resilience along with opportunities, risks, and obligations related to military and civil defence.

We work in close cooperation with the State Ministry of Economic Affairs and have succeeded in initiating a “Security Policy Dialogue” which has subsequently been established by the state government in September 2025 under the chairmanship of the Minister President of Lower Saxony. The aim is to unite the participants’ different perspectives and areas of responsibility, define a common understanding of the situation, and deepen/optimize cooperation.

MCN focuses on advanced materials, cybersecurity, Naval, aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, Defence, Marine/Submarine Technology, Underwater Noise, Maritime Security, Maritime safety, and Marine renewable energies.

The cluster also covers Industry 4.0, Renewable energy, Dual Technologies, Digital Twin, Sustainability, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, 3D Printing and Technologies.

About MARITIMES CLUSTER NORDDEUTSCHLAND E. V.

With more than 350 members from business, science and politics, the Maritime Cluster Northern Germany (MCN) is the maritime industry’s network. With regional branch offices in Bremen, Hamburg, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein, MCN is present in northern Germany and works closely together with local stakeholders on the ground. One of the main goals of the Maritime Cluster Northern Germany is to promote innovations and projects in the maritime sector. MCN advises on project ideas, provides information about funding programmes and helps in the search for suitable project partners.

MCN coordinates eight specialist groups focusing on innovation management, maritime information and communication technologies, maritime law, maritime safety, maritime economy offshore wind, personnel and qualifications, ship efficiency as well as subsea communications.

The Maritime Cluster Northern Germany was founded in 2011. The federal states of Hamburg, Lower Saxony and Schleswig-Holstein initially worked together in the cross-state cluster; Bremen and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania also joined in September 2014. MCN has been operating as an association since 2017.

The association is also active in national and European networks and participates in funding programs to promote innovation and internationalization.

Points of contact 

• Jessica Wegener, Managing Director - jessica [dot] wegenermaritimes-cluster [dot] de (jessica[dot]wegener[at]maritimes-cluster[dot]de)
• Maria Haas, Internationalisation - maria [dot] haasmaritimes-cluster [dot] de (maria[dot]haas[at]maritimes-cluster[dot]de)

Health/Bio-sciences, RIS3 / RIS4, materials, Smart Specialisation Strategy, and other

Saxony-Anhalt aims at an approach of technological openess in a framework of it‘s S3-based regional innovation strategy. While focusing on respective strategic fields of strength with lead market potential, Saxony-Anhalt’s strong regional innovation ecosystem consists of a remarkable composition of five universities, various research institutions (e.g. DLR, Fraunhofer, Leibniz, Max Planck), clusters and industry. This also gives rise to many dual-use potentials.

Even if Saxony-Anhalt is not a traditional hub of the German defense industry, nevertheless there are recent developments and emerging potential that positions the state for future strategic performance. Business and research stakeholders are signalizing an openness to identify dual-use potentials. The region is steadily gaining traction through targeted investments, acquisition and industrial diversification. It is of strategic importance due to its location, logistical connections, as well as properties for research and military. Rheinmetall’s entry into the region (clearance of old munition and production of broader defense munitions and components), the transformation of the existing industries such as the automotive industry, the basic chemicals industry, and a supporting chemicals sector are establishing a stronger foundation for growth and technological process.

Long lasting experience in different European Networks, engagement relevant European cooperation programs such as HORIZON, Interreg, I3 and others is empowering Saxony-Anhalt to stay close with the European family.

Advanced materials and Technologies, Photonics, Eletronics & Communication

NanoMicroMaterialsPhotonics.NRW (NMWP.NRW) is North Rhine-Westphalia’s central high-tech cluster for key enabling technologies such as nanotechnology, microsystems technology, advanced materials, photonics and quantum technologies.

Modern defence capability depends not only on the availability of conventional military systems – such as tanks, missiles, or aircraft – but increasingly on the technological sophistication behind them. Today’s most advanced defence and security systems are built upon high-tech solutions from the fields addressed by NMWP.NRW, including materials science, micro- and nanoelectronics, photonics and diverse sensor technologies.

Building on North Rhine-Westphalia’s strong industrial base and scientific excellence, NMWP.NRW acts as a bridge between technology providers and the security and defence sector as a key user industry. With its strong SME landscape, exceptional industrial expertise and central European location, the region is a leading hub for security and defence innovation.

quantum, sensor, Lasers, Materials and components, Photonics, Aerospace

Optec-Berlin-Brandenburg (OpTecBB) e.V. is the competence network for optical technologies and microsystems technology in the Berlin-Brandenburg region. OpTecBB e.V. is an initiative of companies and scientific institutions in Berlin-Brandenburg which aim to explore and use these technologies together. OpTecBB e.V. was founded on 14 September 2000 by companies, research institutions, universities and associations with the support of the responsible state ministries of Brandenburg and the Berlin Senate. 

Today the cluster has around 115 institutional members. Multiple members are active in the field of dual use technologies. 

OpTecBB is active in:

1. photonics and quantum technologies for communication and sensor technology,
2. optical analysis,
3. lighting technology,
4. biophotonics and ophthalmic optics,
5. laser technology,
6. microsystems technology. 

OpTecBB supports: 

1. the securing of skilled workers,
2. foreign trade promotion/trade fairs/internationalisation,
3. start-up support,
4. location-based marketing, PR,
5. political consulting, lobbying. 

OpTecBB, as a registered association, is represented by a board elected by the general meeting. The OpTecBB office supports the work of the association and the board. With its partners Berlin Partner and WFBB, OpTecBB is mainly responsible for cluster management in the Photonics Cluster in Berlin and Brandenburg. OpTecBB is a member of OptecNet Germany e.V., the association of all German regional competence networks for optical technologies. All members of this umbrella organisation can benefit from Germany-wide cooperation, international contacts and joint trade fair participation. OpTecBB is cooperating with SPECTARIS in all matters relating to foreign trade, regulatory affairs, and industry marketing.  OpTecBB is a member of EPIC - European Photonics Industry Consortiumand is active in PPP Photonics21. 

OpTecBB is working on the following projects for the wellbeing of its members: 

1. Berliner Programm für Internationalisierung "PHOENIX III"
2. EU Horizon 2020 project "CARLA"
3. Horizon 2020 Projekt PHOTON HUB EUROPE

Maritime, Energy, Naval, Marine / Submarine Technology, Autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, R&D, Marine & Maritime Systems, IoT, Artificial Intelligence

WTSH is the first port of call when it comes to the further development of companies in Schleswig-Holstein. Whether you want to start up, grow, innovate - or relocate. Together we will move your company forward. Regionally and internationally. We advise and support you closely - from the initial idea to market maturity. And we offer strong networks for strong entrepreneurship. In this way, we create ideal conditions for innovative thinking and forward-looking cooperation. Between science and business, between start-ups and global players, cross-sector and solution-oriented.

With know-how, experience and passion, we promote success. Your company's success and that of our entire region. In short: We are your tailwind.

You would like to start up? 

As start-up experts, we accompany you through all phases of founding a company. From the development and completion of the business idea, to product development and support from investors and Business Angels.

You would like to innovate? 

As industry experts, we support regional innovation networks and guide you through innovation processes. Together, we ensure that you have your finger on the pulse of the times with innovative products, processes and services, and we are a step ahead of them.

You want to go to Germanys true North? 

Welcome to the North! Here you will find an excellent business climate and the best opportunities for your development. Our settlement advisory service will provide you with close support and work with you to find the best solutions for you.

You want to grow - nationally or internationally? 

Our foreign trade advisory service will support you in opening up new sales markets abroad. Through our WTSH foreign offices, we are also there for you locally in the important growth markets.

We advise and accompany you closely in your project. And we offer strong networks for strong entrepreneurship. In this way, we create ideal conditions for innovative thinking and forward-looking cooperation. Between science and business, between start-ups and global players, across sectors and success-oriented. We advise on all innovation and patent issues and safeguard forward-looking ideas. We bring innovative products and services to national and international trade fairs: WTSH organises joint stands at relevant industry events and thus bundles synergies.

We use know-how, experience and passion to promote success - that of your company and of our entire region. In short: we are the tailwind for the economy in the true North.

Wirtschaftsförderung und Technologietransfer Schleswig-Holstein GmbH (WTSH) is a joint enterprise of the State of Schleswig-Holstein, the chambers of industry and commerce, the chambers of handicrafts, and the universities of this State.

Aerospace

The Regional Innovation network AIR – Aerospace Innovation and Research consists of 41 participating subjects of which 31 SMEs, 4 large companies, 4 Departments of the Universities of the Veneto region, and 1 Innovation agency promoted by the Chambers of commerce of Treviso, Verona and Venice and UNIVENETO Foundation. The core competencies of the AIR ecosystem are prevalent on the following main application areas of the aerospace market:

• Earth observation: telescopes, scientific payloads, components, small propulsion systems and telecommunications systems for small satellites
• Space exploration: space robotics, autonomous rovers and extra-terrestrial habitats. Habitat design based on new architectural and constructional paradigms and sustainability (artificial gravity, lighter structures, radiation protection, sustainable food..)
• Aerostructures: transparent solutions, parts of aerostructures and precision mechanical components dedicated to aeronautics, for applications for light vehicles, military and space rovers. Composite products for structural and complex parts.

The presence of University of Padova and Center for Space Studies and Activities CISAS, ranking in 2nd place among all Italian universities and 17th place worldwide for Space Science, offers specialised skills on testing, validation and qualification of aircraft and satellites to support the skills of the entire supply chain in the construction of fixed-wing platforms and for space. The AIR cluster was approved by the Italian region of Veneto with resolution no. 246 of 2 March 2020. The network is aligned with the RIS3 strategy of Veneto region which has identified for space sector a specific strategic mission.

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Electronics

Campania Aerospace Technological District (DAC) was established on May 30, 2012. It includes the main industrial and scientific players in the sector, which plays a leading role in Campania in terms of technological content, scientific expertise, know-how, industrial tradition and turnover, as well as export capacity and number of employees. Currently, DAC involves 197 direct and indirect partners, including 26 large companies (e.g., Leonardo, MA Group, DEMA, GEVEN, Atitech, GE Avio, Telespazio, etc.), 19 Research Centers (e.g., CNR - National Research Council, CIRA - Italian Aerospace Research Center, ENEA and the 5 Universities of Campania) and 152 SMEs and other entities. The priority mission is to foster synergies among the network's technological and productive excellences in the perspective of an enlarged supply chain and a compact industrial ecosystem to promote a greater capacity for commercial penetration. A further objective: to support member SMEs in their path of renewal, facilitate their accessibility to new business opportunities, promote processes of collaboration and exchange of experiences and best practices, and activate structural synergies.

Aerospace, Advanced materials and Technologies, Aeronautics

The Piedmont Aerospace Cluster (Distretto Aerospaziale Piemonte) is a non-profit association established in 2019 to ensure continuity of the previous Committee. Since 2005, the cluster has involved all relevant stakeholders with the aim to enhance the competitiveness of Piedmont’s aerospace industry, guaranteeing coordination and long-term vision for public and private investment in the technological innovation system. The cluster gathers over 80 members, including publica authorities, universities and research centers, key players (Leonardo, Avio Aero, Thales Alenia Space Italia, Mecaer e Microtecnica – Gruppo UTC Collins), SMEs, and associations.  The core objectives and activities of the cluster mainly target the following lines:

• Supply chain: to unlock the potential and to create additional values across the supply chain by strengthening collaboration across different actors.
• Innovation: to promote and to support the research programs, especially towards SMEs to stimulate the competitive growth of SMEs through the sharing of technological scenarios, the aggregation and development of shared projects.
• Education: to support the identification of training needs and to promote the aerospace culture.
• Finance and promotion: to promote participation in national and European projects
• Internationalisation: to increase networking capacity and create partnerships with European clusters, in order to boost SMEs internalisation
   

The cluster embraces the main fields of design, production and services for: Aero structured components and system; Propulsion, systems and components; Interior equipment and furnishing; Landing systems; Electrical / electronic components; Avionics ; Machinery, tools and mechatronics; Special processes and materials;T esting and certification; Space System, Platform, Payload, Ground systems and equipment; UAV/UAS/OPV; MRO.

Defence, Security, Safety, CBRN-biotech and human factors, Health

Fondazione SAFE is a prominent non-profit entity operating in the Defence and Security sector, recognised for its strategic partnerships with public institutions. Among these, the most significant is its long-standing collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Defence, formalised through a dedicated framework agreement which covers studies, research, training, and development of technological solutions. This partnership underlines SAFE’s institutional credibility and operational relevance at the national level.

Positioned at the core of Italy’s efforts in CBRN risk prevention, response, and specialised training, SAFE plays a central operational role in the informal CBRN P3 cluster, which brings together public, private, and professional stakeholders from Italy operating on the CBRN sector. This function in the cluster coordination is a key marker of SAFE's excellence, ensuring the alignment of strategic, operational, and research priorities in the field.

What sets SAFE apart is its forward-looking and innovation-driven approach, particularly in the design and delivery of advanced training programs. These programs, developed in close collaboration with the Italian Armed Forces as well as civilian emergency services such as the national Firefighters Corps, incorporate cutting-edge technologies like Extended Reality (XR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to simulate complex CBRN scenarios. This immersive training environment significantly enhances preparedness and operational readiness, both nationally and internationally.

SAFE’s excellence is also reflected in its leadership of high-impact European and NATO-funded research and development projects, including:

• CBRN SOS (2023–2027, SAFE leading CONOPS and training): funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF), this project aims to create a robust virtual data architecture for sharing and coordinating CBRN-related information among EU Member States. It supports both the Italian Ministry of Defence and the Interforce NBC Defence School, contributing to a pan-European situational awareness and response capability.
• MoSaiC (2023–2025, coordinated by SAFE): also funded by the EDF, this project focuses on real-time mapping of chemical and biological threats using innovative sensor technologies mounted on Unmanned Ground and Aerial Vehicles (UGVs/UAVs). It supports rapid threat detection and decision-making for defence stakeholders.
• NATO STO HFM-NMSG Project (concluded in early 2025, coordinated by SAFE): conducted in collaboration with the Italian Defence Joint NBC Defence School and the Italian Air Force, this research assessed the effectiveness of XR technologies in CBRN training. The results have directly informed new training protocols and validated the use of immersive tools in operational preparation.

Through its strategic partnerships, technological innovation, and leadership in European defence research, Fondazione SAFE has firmly positioned itself as a national cluster of excellence in the Defence sector—particularly for CBRN research, training, and operational coordination.

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Energy, Maritime, Naval, Health/Bio-sciences, Photonics, Robotics, aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, counter UAV/UAS, spacecraft systems R&D and systems engineering, aerial and space based sensor systems e.g. for environmental monitoring - multispectral (visible and infrared  imaging), space/aerial-born sensors data processing, Defence, Space & Security, National security and defence industry, Marine / Submarine Technology, Drones

The Province of South Holland is home to one of the most diverse and technologically advanced industrial ecosystems in the Netherlands. InnovationQuarter, the regional economic development agency, is a semi-public organisation working on behalf of eleven public shareholders, including the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Province of South Holland. Our mission is to strengthen the regional ecosystem by connecting companies, knowledge institutes, and governments to accelerate innovation, investment, and internationalisation.

South Holland’s strategic location and economic strength are anchored in globally competitive clusters, including aerospace and unmanned systems (The Hague, Rotterdam, Katwijk), quantum and high-tech (Delft), maritime and offshore (Rotterdam), and life sciences and health (Leiden and the BioScience Park). These clusters foster dual-use innovations applicable to both civilian and defence domains, from AI-driven security solutions and autonomous systems to sensor technologies, secure communications, and resilient energy systems.

InnovationQuarter entered into a collaboration agreement with the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Province of South Holland, and the Economic Board Zuid-Holland (EBZ). Together with industry and research institutions, we identify and scale technologies that contribute to national and European defence capabilities. This includes developments in areas such as cyber resilience, intelligence support systems, space-based solutions, and situational awareness.

The region also supports a thriving start-up and scale-up ecosystem, with strong focus on high-tech entrepreneurship, supported by instruments such as regional field labs and initiatives like RoboHouse (TU Delft) and the Space Campus Noordwijk, which enable faster validation and deployment of defence-relevant technologies.

NIDV is the only cluster of Dutch companies that deliver products and services related to national and international security. The NIDV promotes the engagement of its participants in the design, development, production, maintenance and disposal of equipment, in addition to related services. The NIDV has a highly extensive global network in the field of defence and security. This network is actively used to profile the expertise and capabilities of the Dutch business community. The NIDV also organises regular themed days and other meetings for its participants. During Project Days, contracting authorities explain new and current equipment and other projects. In addition to discussing the content of various themes, these meetings also offer an excellent opportunity to come into contact with government officials and other NIDV participants. The same can be said of the annual NIDV Symposium, with speakers from both the Netherlands and abroad. The associated exhibition is a unique meeting place for government organisations and the business community.

Artificial Intelligence, Health/Bio-sciences, Energy, Drones, Advanced materials and Technologies, Defence and Dual-use technologies, industries

The Region of East Netherlands is a regional innovation valley within 151 other regio’s across Europe. The network works with the European Commission in strengthening regional innovation ecosystems and the creation of strong value chains. These value chains are especially important if we look at the necessity for more industrial participation to become more economically autonomous. For this reason, we are also member of the Vanguard Initiative. The Smart Specialization Strategy RIS4 led by the Regional Development Agency Oost NL, aims to promote R&D, innovation, and entrepreneurship within the sectors Food, Health, Energy and Technology with specific focus on dual-use technology, as well as in security. The region can benefit from EU ERDF, Interreg, Horizon, I3 and many other funds. Within this context, the region East Netherlands has its own industrial and technological ecosystem, with an increasing number of innovative SMEs and start-ups developing in-house using cutting-edge technology, capable of providing their knowledge and expertise to domestic and global defence sector activities. Not to mention all the other businesses from other sectors in the Region East Netherlands that provide solutions, technology and products for post-disaster rebuilding and recovery.

• More than 250 big companies that are direct defence suppliers such as heavy-duty vehicles company’s (Scania, Rhein Metall) and Radar engineering company (Thales);
• Business organizations like Metaalunie, FME, VNO-NCW, VMO representing all the major defence sector small and medium sized companies (more over 1250 companies) and playing a key part in the Regional Programme to promote Dual Technology, Defence, Security and Rebuilding, promoted by the Regional Industrial companies and Government;
• Universities in the Region of East Netherlands, such as the Public Technical Universities of Twente and Wageningen and the General Radboud University and Radboud UMC specialized in Artificial Intelligence and Health Care;
• The region also consists of seven big high vocational public schools and ten vocational training-centres. All the mentioned knowledge institutes also work to gather with the development agency Oost NL on the creation of spin-off companies and invest in startups;
• In the region there are many different stimulating programmes on industrial modernization, use of AI, circular use of materials. This is often done in public private Technology Centres, which stimulate those innovations/ innovation projects.

The Region East Netherlands is a member of the European Network of Defence Regions through the Regional Development Agency Oost NL, an entity owned by de National Ministry of Economic Affairs and the provinces of Gelderland and Overijssel, which fosters economic growth and competitiveness in the region by promoting economy, increasing investment, removing obstacles, and establishing an environment which favours competitiveness.

Aeronautics, aerospace, aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, Maritime, Naval, Defence, National security and defence industry, Marine / Submarine Technology, Drones, Dual Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, RPAS drones, Business Aviation, Shipyards, Coastal infrastructure, Renewable energy, MRO, offshore industry, SMEs, Naval defence

The Province of Noord-Holland brings together a wide spectrum of activities. Den Helder, in the northern part of our region, hosts a major navy military base, including a port, air base and training facilities. The Port of Amsterdam, in the southern part of our region, belongs among Europe’s largest ports and has a strong track record as an energy hub. Next to this, Noord-Holland hosts important maritime industries and innovation centres.

The Province of Noord-Holland is responsible for the spatial planning within its region and actively supports the regional economy. In this capacity, it provides physical and environmental space for large practice areas, including low altitude helicopter training,  amphibious coastal landing, shooting areas and drone corridors. As a key partner to the Maritime Cluster of Den Helder, the Province is working towards improving the infrastructure in and around Den Helder that will enable growth and improvement of the navy base. The Province is also actively supporting innovation in dual-use areas, such as air mobility, sustainable and strategically independent energy carriers for aviation, and shipping and maritime logistic solutions.

Cybersecurity, Maritime, counter UAV/UAS, Defence, Space & Security, Comprehensive safety and security, Telecommunications, Simulation and training, Digital transformation, Cyber, Defence and Dual-use technologies, Advanced passive and active sensors, Maritime Security, Drones, Border control, R&D, Security, IoT, quantum, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence

The Polish Platform for Homeland Security (PPHS) was established in 2005 through a joint agreement between the Polish Police, universities, and research institutes to accelerate the introduction of innovations in uniformed services. Since then, the cooperation has expanded significantly, positioning PPHS as a trusted national and European platform for civil security and defence-related innovation.

Our mission is to improve the level of security in Poland and across Europe by strengthening the competencies of law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and public institutions while facilitating cooperation between all actors relevant to civil security and defence. PPHS today acts as a cluster of security operators and stakeholders, serving as a hub where practitioners, academia, industry, SMEs, and policymakers converge to co-create solutions.

Over nearly two decades, PPHS has developed into a vigorous team of professionals and experts providing project management, training, policy support, and specialised services. We coordinate initiatives, organise international conferences and training schools, manage communication and dissemination, and provide expertise to overcome diverse challenges in the security domain. Since 2005, PPHS has implemented 68 projects, including 24 European R&D projects.

In recent years, PPHS has positioned itself as a strong facilitator of dual-use technology development. Thanks to its privileged access to civil security stakeholders and innovations, PPHS plays a pivotal role in preparing the ground for security actors to adapt and transfer solutions into the defence domain. This strategic positioning is reinforced by our coordination and guidance in two EDF-funded projects launched in 2024, where PPHS is responsible for organising technological challenges in dual-use defence technologies and supporting cross-sector innovation uptake.

Our thematic expertise spans over civil security, protection of public spaces, maritime security, border control, and strategic security. We are also a strong partner in EU-HYBNET: Empowering a Pan-European Network to Counter Hybrid Threats. Through this combination of longstanding practitioner trust, dual-use facilitation, active role in EDF and Horizon Europe projects, and strategic partnerships such as EU-HYBNET, PPHS is uniquely positioned to contribute to the European Network of Defence-Related Regions (ENDR). We bring both practical end-user access and cross-domain innovation expertise, ensuring that civil security advances are effectively leveraged for Europe’s defence resilience and technological sovereignty.

Aeronautics

The North East Regional Development Agency (NE RDE) was established in 1999. NE RDE is a non-governmental, nonprofit, public utility institution. Our mission is to act as a generator of economic and social development in the North-East Region. Our agency develops strategies, attracts resources, identifies and implements financing programmes and offers services for stimulating sustainable economic development, partnerships and an entrepreneurial spirit. Within the regional strategy, our organisation is supporting the development of the defence sector by offering access to its own network and know-how, by searching for financial instruments suited for defence-related R&D and production activities as well as supporting startups to follow this path. Our most important regional player in this sector is Aerostar SA, which acts as a subcontractor in major civil programmes for companies such as Airbus, GKN Aerospace, Premium AEROTEC, Dassault, Gulfstream, Boeing, and Bombardier. Aerostar is also involved in the maintenance and repair of military aircraft as well as development of ground defence systems. Furthermore, NE RDE is supporting the development of the newly created Forensics Cluster, which will have its headquarters in our region, on Aerostar’s premises.

Aerospace, Dual Technologies, Aeronautics, Photonics, Defence and Dual-use technologies

AERA is the non-profit cluster for the aerospace, defence and dual-use ecosystem in Aragon (Spain), officially recognised by the Spanish Ministry of Industry as an Innovative Business Group (AEI). The cluster brings together 63 members — 12 large companies, 41 SMEs, 7 knowledge-transfer centres and 3 sector organisations — accounting for ~€850M turnover, ~5,500 jobs and ~60% of the region’s aerospace sector. AERA covers the full value chain across Aeronautics & MRO, Drones/UAS & Space, Engineering & advanced services, Manufacturing (metal/composites, precision, special processes), Telecommunications/electronics & software, and RTOs/Universities.

On the defence and dual-use side, AERA members develop and integrate uncrewed systems and payloads, mission-critical electronics & secure communications, sensing and AI/data solutions, advanced materials & processes, MRO & lifecycle/sustainability (re-use/recycling), and energy & hydrogen/SAF-linked innovations. As an AEI, AERA leads and channels funding to its members in national and EU collaborative programmes (AEI calls, CDTI, Horizon Europe, EDF, SMP/Euroclusters), structuring consortia “end-to-end” from TRL maturation to demonstration. The cluster animates the ecosystem through industry days, thematic roundtables and international networking, and collaborates with the Aragonese Institute for Economic Development on the emerging Aragón Defence Hub. Joining ENDR, AERA commits to share best practices, co-create cross-border projects and supply chains, and accelerate dual-use adoption that strengthens European resilience and competitiveness.

Advanced materials, Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Energy, Land sector, Maritime, Naval, Robotics, Health/Bio-sciences, ICTs

Andalucía Trade is the regional agency of the Andalusian Government responsible for supporting business development, innovation, and internationalization. It integrates the expertise of three former entities—IDEA Agency (business promotion, strategic sectors, and investment attraction), Andalusian Knowledge Agency (R&D&i and knowledge transfer), and Extenda (international trade promotion)—to drive the economic transformation of the region. The agency’s key objectives include fostering business growth through innovation and strategic sectors, financing industrial and R&D&i projects, and boosting Andalusia’s competitiveness in global markets through foreign investment and export promotion.

The defence sector is a strategic pillar of Andalusia’s economy, with a strong presence of companies and research centers in aerospace, naval defence, advanced manufacturing, and dual-use technologies like cybersecurity, robotics, and ICT. Andalucía Trade acts as the Technical Secretariat of the Andalusian Aerospace Strategy 2021-2027, which aligns with the region's Smart Specialization Strategy for Sustainability (S4Andalucia 2021-2027) to drive innovation and competitiveness in aerospace and defence. The agency provides tailored support to SMEs, particularly in identifying partners for collaboration under the European Defence Fund (EDF) and securing funding for R&D&i projects.

Advanced materials, Aerospace, Energy, Maritime, Naval, high reliability semiconductor components, Defence, Space & Security, aerospace, Drones, Dual Technologies, Artificial Intelligence, industries, sensor, Eletronics & Communication, Industry 4.0, Disruptive technologies, Telecommunications, Renewable energy, Marine & Maritime Systems, air, SMEs, Space, Force protection and mobility, Cyber, Comprehensive safety and security

Andalusia has one of Spain’s strongest industrial ecosystems in defence and dual-use technologies, generating 30% of national turnover and 36% of direct employment. Its industrial fabric includes major companies such as Airbus, Navantia, Santa Bárbara, Indra, Iturri, and Aertec, alongside numerous specialized SMEs. The region combines expertise in aerospace and naval sectors with strong growth in drones, advanced logistics, and mission systems. Moreover, it is located at the crossroads of the Southern Defence Industrial Corridor and the future Corredor de la Plata, particularly relevant for the land sector, linking with the Northern Corridor and forming a strategic axis for the Spanish and European defence industry. It hosts key infrastructures such as CEUS (Huelva), CATEC (Seville), CETEDEX (Jaén), the Army’s Logistics Base in Córdoba, and the headquarters of the Spanish Space Agency. The presence of major military bases—such as the Morón Air Base (Seville), the Rota Naval Base (Cádiz), and the Army’s bases in Cerro Muriano (Córdoba) and Viator (Almería)—grants Andalusia a strategic role in Southern Europe and the Mediterranean.

The Regional Ministry for Industry, Energy and Mining of Andalusia, as the competent regional authority in defence, drives this industrial framework through its own financial instruments and flagship projects in strategic sectors such as naval, aerospace, and space, in close cooperation with other areas of the regional government. It fosters the international projection of the sector through participation in specialized forums on defence and dual-use technologies and promotes public–private collaboration as a key driver for sector development, supporting initiatives such as the Innova IRV programme. This programme addresses four dual-use technological challenges: the development of teleoperated land vehicles, recovery of mining waste, fuel cells, and predictive maintenance—thus combining technological innovation and industrial application to strengthen strategic autonomy. It also collaborates with the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission in the REGDUALOSA project, which analyses the impact of dual-use technologies on open strategic autonomy.

Our goal within the network is to strengthen Andalusia’s role as a European industrial and technological hub in defence and dual-use technologies, fostering international alliances and consortia. To this end, we adapt our industrial strategy to capture greater returns from major European defence programmes, such as FCAS, EUROMALE, SIRTAP, EUROFIGHTER, A400M, C295, VCR 8x8 Dragón, and RPAS, thereby contributing actively to the European Union’s Defence Industrial Strategy while promoting both European strategic autonomy and sustainable regional development.

Land sector, RPAS drones, Advanced materials, Health/Bio-sciences, Robotics, Electronics, ICTs

The Principality of Asturias, a manufacturing and industrial region that generates knowledge and technology, is committed to the development of the Defence Industry and, thus, to being able to contribute to and support the Spanish Army in its Innovation strategy. To this end, and with a marked focus on research, development and innovation, the Asturian industry has organised itself around a technological hub. Currently, an ecosystem has been built around this initiative, with more than 30 members including large companies, SMEs, start-ups and technological innovation centres. The industries that make up the association account for more than 15% of the region's GDP and employ more than 2,500 professionals. Areas: Design, engineering and advanced manufacturing; medicine and combatant protection; robotics and autonomous vehicles; additive manufacturing; weapons, ammunition and defence systems; information technologies, VR/AR and simulators. Objectives:

• Coordinate all the agents (companies, academia, technology centres and public administration) working in the defence sector and carrying out technological development tasks in this sector, through the design and execution of a technological innovation roadmap.
• Increase the presence of technology suppliers and technology seekers in the defence sector supply chain, both nationally and internationally.
• Identify and execute technology demonstration projects that serve as proofs of concept with the capacity to be implemented in the defence sector in the short to medium term.
• Increase the involvement of the Directorate General for Armaments (DGAM) and the Logistics Support Command (MALE) in the industrial and technological fabric of Asturias.
• Promote training and qualification in the associated companies in everything related to R&D&I in the defence sector.
• Promote forums, debates, congresses and similar initiatives, in which experiences and results related to innovation in the defence industry can be exchanged.
• Provide information and dissemination to keep the members of the entity up to date on the evolution of aspects related to R&D&I in the field of technologies linked to defence.

Energy, Defence, Dual Technologies, Defence and Dual-use technologies, Cybersecurity

Aragón is a defence-related region with significant training and readiness assets. The San Gregorio National Training Centre outside Zaragoza spans nearly 34,000 hectares and regularly hosts large multinational exercises, including Swift Response 23 under DEFENDER-23, which involved Allied forces operating in and around the range. The region also hosts Spain’s Emergency Military Unit Battalion IV at Zaragoza Air Base, strengthening civil protection and crisis response across northeastern Spain.

Building on this operational foundation, Aragón is developing a regional Defence and Security Hub to coordinate public–private cooperation around dual-use technologies, cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. The ecosystem includes the AERA aerospace and defence cluster, the Zaragoza Logistics Center partnered with MIT for logistics R&D and talent, and the new Aragón Cybersecurity Center headquartered at the Walqa Technology Park with operational units in Zaragoza and Teruel.

Strategically located between Madrid, Barcelona and the French border, Aragón is a key logistics corridor. Zaragoza hosts PLAZA, Europe’s largest logistics platform, an intermodal hub connecting road, rail and air that supports rapid movement of goods, equipment and personnel. As an ENDR member, Aragón would commit to sharing this expertise, facilitating SME participation in EU programmes, and engaging in joint testing, skills and innovation actions with partner regions.

Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronics, Digital transformation, Sustainability, Defence and Dual-use technologies, Space, SMEs

Fundación para el Conocimiento madri+d is a public foundation, depending on the regional government of Madrid (Ministry of Science, Education and Technology) with the main purpose to promote research, regional development, innovation and collaboration in the region of Madrid. The mission is to support the knowledge ecosystem by fostering partnerships between academia, industry, public sector and other relevant stakeholders. 

In the field of aerospace and defence, we are responsible for the implementation of the following activities in the Region of Madrid (among others): 

• Enterprise Europe Network – we are the regional coordinators of the EEN-Madrid, representing the region of Madrid in the Sector Group Aerospace and Defence. I personally hold the position of Co-chair for Defence within that structure.
• European Digital Innovation Hub – we are the regional coordinators of the EDIH Madrid, with a special focus on cybersecurity support to SMEs and public sector.
• ESABIC Madrid – in collaboration with ESA, to incubate promising down and upstream space technologies from our region.
• Deeptech Madrid -  a programme to support science-based start-ups in Madrid.
• “Clústeres de Innovación Tecnológica y Talento de la Comunidad de Madrid” (CITT), including 4 of them: Semiconductors, Space Technologies, Biotechnology and Digital Humanities.

Aeronautics, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Space & Security, Drones, ICTs, Sustainability, Big Data, Advanced materials and Technologies, Systems integration, Trading & Business Support, Autonomous systems and artificial intelligence, R&D, Aeronautics Space and Defence, Digital transformation, Lasers, Industry 4.0

The Instituto para la Competitividad Empresarial de Castilla y León (ICECYL) is the regional agency of the Government of Castilla y León dedicated to strengthening business competitiveness through innovation, financing, and internationalization. ICECYL provides comprehensive support for companies by promoting industrial development, facilitating access to funding, and driving R&D and technology transfer across the region. Its mission is to foster economic growth and global competitiveness by supporting strategic sectors and encouraging foreign investment and internationalization.

The defence sector plays a strategic and economic role in Castilla y León, with more than 200 companies supported by a growing ecosystem of technology centers and universities working in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, robotics, and dual-use technologies.

ICECYL actively supports SMEs and large enterprises in identifying collaboration opportunities under the European Defence Fund (EDF) and securing financing for innovation and industrial projects. The agency also promotes participation in international trade fairs and missions, reinforcing the region’s role within Europe’s defence and security value chain.

Aerospace, Naval, aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, Dual Technologies

IGAPE, Galician Institute for Economic Promotion is the Regional Development Agency from Galicia (Spain).

Under the organization of the Regional Ministry of Economy and Industry (Xunta de Galicia – Galicia Government), IGAPE is leading the programs to boost Galician Economy in almost any activity area.

The major activity sectors for our actions are the Mobility sector (Automotive, Aerospace), Maritime Industries (Naval and offshore energies), ICT, Biotech and Health, Smart Logistics, Wood industry, Fashion industry, etc.

The organization of IGAPE in four operative Areas: Competitiveness Area, Innovation Area, Financing Area and Internationalization Area, shows the aim of the institution to boost any company to improve its capacities focusing in whatever field of action.

From 2015 we boost the development of the aeronautic and space technologies, specially centered in UAVs tech and New Space entrepreneurship, with very important goals and success achieved up to know, being Galicia a significant pole of development of UAVs all around Europe, including a CIAR (Research Center for Airborne Payloads) installed in the province of Lugo with advanced capabilities and instrumentation for Airborne testing.

Based on the existing capacities in Galicia applicable to Defense & Security, especially in Naval industries (NAVANTIA) and military ground vehicles (UROVESA) and also bearing in mind the goals achieved in the Aerospace initiative 2015-2024, with a wide deployment of dual technologies, we have formulated the AEROSPACE, DEFENSE & SECURITY STRATEGY for 2025-2030. This Strategy has been formally approved recently by Galician Gov’t and it is going to be published in the following days. The Strategy foresees the application of 183 M€ from Galician budget to get a total investment of around 900 M€ including funding from other public programs, national and international, and private investments.

IGAPE will be developing new programs and initiatives to carry out this big Strategy, being the major actor for it in the Galicia Government (Xunta de Galicia).

Electronics, Marine / Submarine Technology, Underwater Noise, Hydroacustics, ICTs, Robotics, Drones, Competitive Intelligence, Dual Technologies, Security, Sustainability, Smart Specialisation Strategy, RIS3 / RIS4, War Port, Digital Twin, Augmented / Virtual Reality, 3D Printing, IoT, Big Data, Advanced materials, Cybersecurity, Digital transformation

Historically, the Region of Murcia has always had a profound commitment to the defence sector, with a number of military bases scattered across its geography. Our military bases in San Javier, Alcantarilla and Cartagena illustrate how deeply rooted the defence sector and the armed forces are in the Region of Murcia. The Smart Specialisation Strategy RIS4 Region of Murcia, led by Regional Development Agency, aim to promote R&D, innovation, and entrepreneurship in dual technology, as well as in security and post-disaster rebuilding, benefiting from EU ERDF and ESF co-funding. Within this context, the Region of Murcia has its own industrial and technological ecosystem, with an increasing number of innovative SMEs and start-ups developing in-house using cutting-edge technology, capable of providing their knowledge and expertise to domestic and global defence sector projects. Not to mention all the other businesses from other sectors in the Region of Murcia that provide solutions, technology and products for post-disaster rebuilding and recovery projects. Navantia's S80 submarine series development at its centre in Cartagena is a clear example of the existing potential in the Region of Murcia. Public and private agents include the following:

• Business organisations, led by the Regional Confederation of Business Organisation CROEM and COEC, the Regional Confederation of Business Organisation of Cartagena, representing all the major defence sector companies, and playing a key part in the Regional Programme to promote Dual Technology, Defence, Security and Rebuilding, promoted by the Regional Government.
• Armed forces and law enforcement agencies.
• A world-leading marine engineering company (NAVANTIA);
• Universities from the Region of Murcia, such as the Public Polytechnical University of Cartagena (UPCT) leading specific actions in the defence sector, such as the Doctorate in Dual-use Technology and Security Management Systems, as well as the creation of spin-off companies. Worth mentioning is the University Defence Centre (CUD) at the General Air Academy (AGA) in San Javier.
• The Region of Murcia's network of Technology Centres, including the Marine Technology Centre (CTN), the ICT technology centre (CENTIC), the construction technology centre (CTCON) and the metal technology centre (CTMETAL) capable of providing technological solutions.
• Technology supplier ecosystem with both public (SAES,...) and private entities (Mecánicas Bolea, Herjimar,...), most of which are members of the Naval and Industrial Maintenance Company Association (AEMIN).
• The Regional Government's Training and Employment Service (SEF).
• The European Business Innovation Centres of the Region of Murcia, with the Cartagena Centre -CEEIC- leading the 5.0 Industry programme development.
• The Cartagena Port Authority.
• Chamber of Commerce of Cartagena.
• The Cartagena, San Javier and Alcantarilla City Halls. On the one hand, due to their proactive role in the promotion of local projects, historically tied to the armed forces. On the other hand, because of their ideal location as a "sandbox" to assess technological projects.

The Region of Murcia is a member of the European Network of Defence Regions through the Development Institute (INFO), an entity under the Regional Department of Business, Employment, Universities and Spokesperson's Office, which fosters economic growth and competitiveness in the Region of Murcia (Spain) by promoting economy, increasing investment, removing obstacles, and establishing an environment which favours competitiveness.

IVACE is the Valencian Institute for Business Competitiveness  of the Valencian Regional Government whose role is to implement most of the industrial and SME’s policies generated by the Valencian Regional Government through funding.

IVACE is key in promoting the growth of the defense industry in the región.

The defense industry in the Valencian Community is seeking to consolidate its position as a strategic sector within the framework of regional reindustrialization, primarily through the creation of clusters and the pursuit of European alliances. Although the defense industry's contribution to regional GDP and employment is currently low, there is a will to establish working groups that will strengthen cooperation between companies, promote industrial diversification, and foster regional and European collaboration.

Within this approach, there is enormous potential in the  robust Valencian Automotive Cluster (AVIA) most of whose companies can easily diversify and innovate activity and production to become providers of the defense sector. The automotive sector boasts 15,000 employees and contributes 8% to the regional GDP.

Furthermore, the Region of Valencia has two levers linked to the defense sector, which can taken root as drivers of industrial development. These are:

• The NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Headquarters located in Bétera, a few kilometers from Valencia, with a remarkable contribution to the regional GDP.
• The region hosts the only UN base in Spain, a communications and digital technology centre that employs more than 700 staff members of the international organization. This center ensures communications on the ground for both the United Nations and other organizations.

Key Initiatives by IVACE aiming a the Defence Sector:

Strategic Alliances: The Valencian government is seeking European alliances to grow the defense sector through regional and cluster cooperation.

Creation of Commissions: Working groups are being created to boost opportunities in the defense sector, such as the one encourged by the automotive and mobility industry association (AVIA), which will begin in 2026.

Integration into the Reindustrialization Strategy: Defense sector companies are being incorporated into the 2024-2028 Reindustrialization Strategy, which aims to strengthen Valencian industry in general.
Coordination and Collaboration: Emphasis is placed on the need to coordinate all actors in the industrial ecosystem to achieve a greater presence in strategic areas such as defense.

Diversification: The aim is to leverage existing capabilities in other sectors, such as automotive, to diversify into the defense sector, fostering innovation and collaboration.

Aeronautics, Aerospace, Land sector, Advanced materials, Photonics, Robotics, aerial UAV/UAS - including UTM, Industry 4.0, Digital transformation, Cybersecurity, Dual Technologies, Electronics, Energy, National security and defence industry, RIS3 / RIS4, Smart Specialisation Strategy, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Telecommunications

Aragon, strategically located in Southern Europe, serves as a vital logistics and defence hub. Its optimal geostrategic position is bolstered by the combined capabilities of Huesca, Teruel, and Zaragoza. As the productive heart of the Ebro Valley, Aragon connects 65% of Spain's GDP within a 300km radius.

The Aragonese Institute for Development (IAF), as the regional development agency, aims to drive Aragon's socio-economic progress, foster job growth and stability, and address regional disparities.

Specifically, within the defence sector, the IAF coordinates the Aragon Defence Hub, a strategic initiative supported by the Government of Aragon, Zaragoza City Council, the Spanish Government Delegation in Aragon, and the AERA, ALIA, and Tecnara clusters. This initiative, in collaboration with the Spanish Ministry of Defence, seeks to cultivate a cross-sector defence ecosystem in Aragon through public-private partnerships. It aims to expand the industrial and technological base of defence, with the following key objectives:

• Enhance the deterrence capabilities of our Armed Forces, ensuring the protection of civil rights and freedoms.
• Strengthen civil-military synergies through the dual-use adaptation of companies and infrastructure.
• Drive sector growth, innovation, and internationalization, creating high-value employment.
• Foster a culture of security and defence within civil society.
• Support the structuring of the national defence industry through the development of new logistics infrastructure.
• Promote specialized training, disruptive entrepreneurship, and the transfer of innovation to the civilian sector.

In an era of constant change, the Aragon Defence Hub provides a strategic platform that integrates security, technology, and public-private cooperation to address future challenges.