The European Network of Defence-related Regions (ENDR) was launched in 2016 by the European Commission. Until the end of 2021, ENDR was funded by the COSME programme. From 2022 onwards, the ENDR is funded by the European Defence Fund (EDF).
ENDR has 3 objectives:
- Bringing regional organisations and clusters together to exchange best practices on how to develop defence-related development strategies, including the integration of defence industrial and research assets into smart specialisation strategies
- Facilitating the flow of information for funding opportunities (such as the European Defence Fund, and other EU structural and investment funds); and
- Promoting the development of regional clusters of excellence.
As of 22 June 2026, 121 entities from 23 Member States and Norway are members of the network.
Since its inception, DG DEFIS, together with ENDR members, have organised 27 conferences/workshops in the past 10 years on topics such as maritime security, drones, maintenance in defence domains, Healthcare and Medical Countermeasures, dual use, skills in defence industry, cyber defence and cybersecurity and others.
More conferences and events are taking place in 2026
DG DEFIS has also been organising annual meetings with ENDR members since 2016.
DG DEFIS is in regular contact with members to keep them informed about relevant funding initiatives, and open to suggestions for future events.
You can contact us by email DEFIS-ENDR
ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (DEFIS-ENDR[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu).
New members
ACstyria Mobilitätscluster GmbH
Areas of activities
ACstyria Mobilitätscluster GmbH as Industry cluster concentrates on capability areas of direct relevance to EU security and defence priorities, and Innovative defence technologies SMEs. In particular: automotive, rail, aerospace, advanced materials, cybersecurity, drones, robotics, space, and dual technologies.
About ACstyria Mobilitätscluster GmbH
ACstyria Mobilitätscluster GmbH aims to join ENDR to contribute its cluster expertise, strengthen cross-regional collaboration, support European strategic autonomy, and create new opportunities for industry, research, and innovation.
ACstyria seeks to connect the regional ecosystem with leading European defence-related regions, exchange best practices, develop collaborative projects, and create new opportunities for industry, research, and innovation stakeholders across Europe.
One initiative we are particularly proud of is ACstyria’s Security & Defence Strategy Group, bringing together more than 300 companies, from leading industrial players to specialised SMEs. The group develops joint activities, identifies cooperation opportunities, and supports participation in European Defence Fund (EDF) projects and international consortia. This initiative strengthens regional capabilities, fosters innovation, and enhances cross-border collaboration within the European defence ecosystem.
Point of contact
Kerstin Draxler, MA - Head of Security & Defense
kerstin [dot] draxleracstyria [dot] com (kerstin[dot]draxler[at]acstyria[dot]com)
AVIASPACE BREMEN e.V.
Areas of activities
AVIASPACE BREMEN e.V. as Industry cluster concentrates on capability areas of direct relevance to EU security and defence priorities, Innovative defence technologies SMEs, Disruptive technologies, Unmanned Aerial Systems, Materials and components, Digital transformation, and Space.
About AVIASPACE BREMEN e.V.
AVIASPACE BREMEN e.V. is an association of dedicated companies and application-oriented research institutes in and around the federal state of Bremen. This network implements the federal state of Bremen’s strategy for the aeronautics and space industries.
The association’s objective is to improve cooperation and develop innovative projects in and around the federal state of Bremen as a business and science centre. Its scope covers the aeronautics and space industries and other technologies related to this area whose members have specific competences.
AVIASPACE BREMEN e.V. connects companies, scientific institutions and authorities. It focuses on topics such as networking, technology transfer, and economic growth through promotion of start-ups and young entrepreneurs. The purpose is to develop a technical and organizational network of producers of end-products, suppliers and service providers, and scientific institutions in the fields of materials science, high lift systems, engineering, manufacturing technology, earth observation, and robotics. More than fifty of the companies and institutes working in the aeronautics and space industries in Bremen have already joined AVIASPACE BREMEN e.V.
Point of contact
Jannis Balke, Project Manager: Jjannis [dot] Balkeaviaspace-bremen [dot] de (annis[dot]Balke[at]aviaspace-bremen[dot]de)
Markus Rossol, Managing Partner (b.r.m. IT & Aerospace GmbH): markus [dot] rossolbrm [dot] de
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Grand Est
Areas of activities
CCI Grand Est concentrates on capability areas of direct relevance to EU security and defence priorities, Innovative defence technologies SMEs, Disruptive technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation, Energy resilience & environmental transition, and Innovative defence technologies SMEs.
About CCI Grand Est
CCI Grand Est is the Chamber of Commerce and Industry serving the Grand Est region, one of France’s most strategically positioned regions, sharing borders with Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium and Switzerland. It supports over 200,000 businesses across the region through a wide network of local offices and specialized services.
Through its international arm, CCI International Grand Est, the Chamber has been actively supporting regional defence-related companies in their cross-border development since 2022, organizing groups missions to different countries. As a member of Team France Export and the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN, active in 66 countries), CCI Grand Est is well positioned to connect regional SMEs with European partners, funding opportunities and defence markets.”
Point of contact
Emma Traoret, Head of the EU Funding Unit, e [dot] traoretgrandest [dot] cci [dot] fr (e[dot]traoret[at]grandest[dot]cci[dot]fr)
Delegation of the Region of Valencia in Brussels
Areas of activities
Delegation of the Region of Valencia in Brussels as regional authority concentrates on capability areas of direct relevance to EU security and defence priorities, Innovative defence technologies SMEs. Disruptive technologies, Materials and components, Digital transformation, and Space.
About Delegation of the Region of Valencia in Brussels
The Delegation of the Region of Valencia in Brussels seeks to join the European Network of Defence-related Regions (ENDR) to strengthen its contribution to the development of a competitive, innovative, and resilient European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB).
As a regional authority, the Generalitat Valenciana plays a coordinating role between industry, SMEs, research centres, universities, clusters, and public institutions. Through the recently established Valencian Alliance for Security and Defence, the region is building a collaborative ecosystem aimed at fostering innovation, supporting dual-use technologies, developing talent, and facilitating participation in European defence initiatives.
Membership in ENDR would provide a valuable platform to exchange best practices with other European regions, identify opportunities for interregional cooperation, and strengthen the integration of Valencian stakeholders into European defence value chains and collaborative projects.
The Comunitat Valenciana also benefits from a permanent representation in Brussels, which serves as a bridge between regional actors and European institutions, programmes, and policy developments. This presence enables close monitoring of EU priorities and facilitates active participation in European partnerships and strategic initiatives. Furthermore, the regional office is an active member of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) Defence Sector Group, providing direct access to a broad European network of companies, clusters, innovation actors and public organisations involved in defence and security. Through this participation, the region contributes to the identification of business, technology and research cooperation opportunities and supports SMEs seeking to engage in European defence markets and programmes.
By joining ENDR, the Comunitat Valenciana aims not only to benefit from the network's expertise and connections but also to actively contribute its experience in innovation, industrial development, dual-use technologies and ecosystem-building, supporting the common European objective of enhancing security, resilience and strategic autonomy.
Point of contact
Loles Vidal Llácer, Senior Policy Adviser: Lvidaldelcomval [dot] be (Lvidal[at]delcomval[dot]be)
Niedersachsen.next GmbH
Areas of activities
Niedersachsen.next GmbH as Regional Development Agency of Lower Saxony concentrates on capability areas of direct relevance to EU security and defence priorities, and Innovative defence technologies SMEs.
About Niedersachsen.next GmbH
Next operates as the state’s business and innovation agency - specifically in the field of knowledge and technology transfer - acting as an SME-oriented driver and coordinator of transfer-focused such as the Automotive Agency, the Digital Agency and Startup.
Next collaborates as a strategic partner with Lower Saxony’s business associations within the Lower Saxony Defence Cluster, a platform for companies in the security and defence industry. This group comprises both companies that directly supply components, assemblies, and systems to the security and defence sector and those offering potential dual-use goods. Within the defence cluster, Next is responsible for integrating new players from the civilian sector into the platform’s business ecosystem, thereby combining emerging trends with innovations and new technologies. As part of its network activities, Next ensures that companies based in Lower Saxony are presented with new opportunities for collaboration with new target groups in new business areas.
We offer our core areas of expertise: Automotive and supplier industries, Maritime industry, Aviation and Production and logistics for complementing internal strengths along the value chain and for entering international defence programs.
We joined ENDR to access to an established network of regions focused on the defence and security industry; to direct exchange with similar clusters in Europe and to receive detailed information on Tenders and Consortium Formation.
Point of contact
Dr.-Ing. Jochen Selle, Prokurist, j [dot] sellends [dot] de (j[dot]selle[at]nds[dot]de)
Rete Innovativa Regionale Aerospace Innovation and Research - RIR AIR
Areas of activities
Autonomous navigation and remote sensing
Advanced on-board systems for small small satellites
Space exploration
Expansion of strategic research infrastructures
Sustainable Technologies for Aeronautical and Space Systems
Space habitat and food technologies
About RIR AIR
The aerospace regional innovative network of Veneto AIR – Aerospace Innovation and Research aims to act as an integrated and collaborative ecosystem of companies, universities, and regional stakeholders.
Established in 2020, its scope is to position itself at the forefront of the New Space Economy by adopting a holistic approach, promoting the internationalization and financial growth of companies represented, and enhancing local skills and expertise.
Today, the network includes more than 100 partners, actively contributing to innovation and competitiveness in aerospace. PROJECTS FINANCED WITH PR Veneto FESR 2021-2027: https://rir-air.it/progetto-finanziato/
Headquarters
Registered office: Via Torino 151/C, 30172 Mestre (Venice), Italy
RIR AIR Marketing and Communication Office
+39 338 7304443, marketingrir-air [dot] it (marketing[at]rir-air[dot]it)
Point of contact
Segreteria RIR AIR
+39 041 251 7511, segreteriarir-air [dot] it (segreteria[at]rir-air[dot]it)
Social Media
Regional Council of Central Finland
Areas of activities
Central Finland hosts key national actors related to defence and security, including significant military presence, training areas, and logistics capabilities. In parallel, the region has a rapidly developing technology base and expertise, particularly in the following areas: Cybersecurity and digital resilience; Comprehensive security; Artificial intelligence and data-driven solutions; Autonomous and heavy-duty mobility (including defence applications and companies); Energy systems and resilience (incl. hydrogen and energy security); Industrial digitalisation and dual-use technologies.
About Regional Council of Central Finland
Central Finland is a strategically positioned region with a strong and growing role in Finland’s comprehensive security and defence ecosystem. The region combines advanced technological capabilities, a well-developed innovation environment, and close cooperation between public authorities, industry, and research organisations as well as the Finnish Defence Forces especially the Air Force Command and Air Force Academy Finland which is located in Central Finland.
The Regional Council of Central Finland coordinates regional development and supports the strengthening of defence-related innovation, dual-use technologies, and resilience. The region’s activities are closely aligned with national security and preparedness priorities as well as EU-level strategic objectives.
The regional ecosystem is supported by strong higher education and research organisations, including the University of Jyväskylä and JAMK University of Applied Sciences, which contribute expertise in cybersecurity, AI, and applied technologies relevant for defence and security use. We do active cooperation with SME’s especially under the umbrella of Central Finland Defence Network.
Regional Council of Central Finland actively promotes dual-use innovation ecosystems, where civilian and defence applications are developed in parallel. Regional Council of Central Finland has experience in managing and participating in EU-funded projects and we are increasingly orienting our activities supporting dual use and defence-related innovation and European collaboration frameworks. Our priorities in joining ENDR are to:
- Strengthen European cooperation in defence-related innovation ecosystems
- Facilitate SME and other organisations participation in EU defence initiatives, including EDF-related value chains
- Promote dual-use innovation and technology transfer
- Enhance regional preparedness, resilience, and security of supply
- Contribute to knowledge exchange between European regions active in defence and security
Central Finland is a defence related region and Regional Council of Central Finland has a strong coordination role, active innovation stakeholders, and a clear ambition to scale up its contribution at the European level.
Point of contact
Tero Rautiainen, Development Manager, tero [dot] rautiainenkeskisuomi [dot] fi (tero[dot]rautiainen[at]keskisuomi[dot]fi)
Stay inspired with the EU Defence Observer newsletter, your monthly gateway to the dynamic world of EU defence.
The EU Defence Observer is a new monthly newsletter dedicated to raising awareness among individuals interested in defence activities carried out by the Commission, with a focus on programme directly supported by DG DEFIS.
ENDR Hub
Part of the Digital Space Ecosystem platform, the ENDR Hub is designed to foster independent interaction among ENDR members, offering a space to explore new opportunities, connect with peers, and leverage our tools to maximise collaboration.
- Organisations
ENDR brings together defence-related regional organisations and clusters. Read the list to find a defence-related partner organisation that could support your activities. Total number of members: 121
- Join the network
By sharing information on dual-use strategies, developments and events, ENDR members help shape the European strategy for defence-related regions. If you are a regional organisation, cluster or similar body in the EU (or Norway), you can join the network by filling in the form.
- Resources
This page provides an overview of the different funding and networking opportunities in the EU and beyond. How can you support your future project?
ENDR News
We would like to inform you that we are relaunching our search for more independent experts to assist the Commission for the evaluation of the proposals that will be submitted by 29 September 2026 in response to the EDF 2026 calls for proposals.
It would be a great help if you could share this information with your national and regional networks and encourage any potential independent experts to:
- Sign up to our database of potential independent experts on the EU Funding & Tenders portal
- Fill in the EU Survey – Experts for EDF 2026 Calls
Please note that we can only use experts who already have a valid Personal Security Clearance (PSC) issued by the relevant national authorities.
Further information is available at https://defence-industry-space.ec.europa.eu/calls-tenders/defence-industry-call-experts-assist-european-commission-evaluation-proposals-submitted-funding_en.
Latest News
On 25/6/2026, the first online event “ENDR Newcomers' Day” took place, where 13 new members joining ENDR during the last months presented themselves.
On 13 April 2026, a new call was launched inviting start-ups and scale-ups to apply for the next Autumn Cohort of the EUDIS Defence Business Accelerator, with the programme set to commence in September 2026. A total of 20 companies will be selected to participate. The call is open until 30 May.
This morning, the European Commission adopted a EUR 1.5 billion multiannual work programme
The International Defence and Security Conference and Exhibition, BATTLEFIELD ReDEFiNED 2026 officially kicked off on 26 February 2026.
EUDIS Defence Hackathon Spring 2026 opens call for participants. The EUDIS Defence Hackathon Spring 2026 has officially opened its call for participants. From 16 February, innovators from across Europe and beyond are invited to register.
A research paper on the benefits for regions from defence spending and the added value of DEFIS’ ENDR was recently published in the journal EconPol Forum.
