ECDI Project
Structuring and strengthening the European drone ecosystem
Coordinator :
- AEROSPACE VALLEY (FR)
Public buyer :
- Andalucia Aerospace (ES)
- Silesian Aviation Cluster (PL)
- All Ukrainian Association of Innovative Space Clusters (UA)
Project cost : 2,7 M€
Project duration : 30 months (10/2025 - 04/2028)
Funding scheme : Single Market Programme, Appel COSME Euroclusters 2024
Project description :
Since October 2025, Aerospace Valley has been coordinating the European Cluster for Drone Innovation (ECDI) project, which is dedicated to structuring and strengthening the European drone ecosystem through two key initiatives: the launch of open calls to fund innovation projects (a cascade funding mechanism) and the laying of the foundations for a future ‘Innovation Drone Alliance’ at European level. ECDI aims to support innovation, the advancement of Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and the transition towards more resilient and sustainable drone models.
The first ECDI call for projects was published in January 2026 and, by the first deadline for applications, had received 134 proposals, of which 13 were selected for funding. This initiative benefits the cluster’s members: indeed, of the 13 SMEs selected across Europe, three members of Aerospace Valley (Aerix Systems, Outrevol and Pilgrim Technology) are among the successful applicants and will receive both financial support of up to 50,000 euros and personalised support. The aim is to help them progress to a higher TRL and develop the dual-use application of their product to enter the defence market. A second call for applications will take place in June 2026.
Two further calls for projects will be published in the coming months, this time aimed at SMEs that already have a dual-use product and wish to accelerate their environmental and digital transition.
Further information at: https://ecdi-euroclusters.eu/