Defence sector pre-accelerator

Defence Business Lab will reopen its pre-accelerator programme in 2026!

If you are a deep-tech startup leader or team member with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 3 or higher, Defence Business Lab is designed just for you! The program aims to give you the opportunity to further develop your technology and test it in a real-world environment. The ultimate goal of the accelerator is to prepare you for successful applications to NATO’s DIANA accelerator or the European Defence Fund (EDF) programs.

The program consists of four training modules and concludes with a demo day where you will receive feedback on your progress. During the selection round, the best ideas will be chosen to participate in the 3-month intensive program.

Why apply?

• Comprehensive Training Program: Three months of in-depth guidance and intensive training sessions led by experts.
• Grant Funding: €5,000 to accelerate your development.
• Personalized Mentorship: Eight hours of expert consultations for your team.
• Access to a Valuable Network: Contacts and resources to help turn your idea into a real-world solution.

Is this program for you?

If you have an innovative idea to solve defense and security challenges, a technology readiness level of at least 3, and are ready to further develop and test your solution in a real-world environment, this is the program for you!

The pre-accelerator program is implemented by the Tehnopol Startup Incubator and Sparkup at Tartu Science Park. In Estonia, the program is funded by the Ministry of Defence and supported by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications.

Contact:
Kati Kirsipuu, kati.kirsipuu@tehnopol.ee

Applications for the pre-accelerator will reopen in 2026. If you’d like to receive updates about future application opportunities as well as other defence-related events and programmes, please leave your contact details via the form available through the button below: