Open Call – ECDI Dual-Use Drones Innovative Programme
Open Call – ECDI Dual-Use Drones Innovative Programme
Application deadline: 30 September 2026 – 17:00 CEST
The European Cluster for Drone Innovation (ECDI) project is launching a new Open Call dedicated to manufacturing SMEs operating in the Dual-use drone ecosystem.
Funded by the European Union under the Single Market Programme (SMP COSME), the Dual-Use Drones Innovative Programme aims to strengthen the competitiveness of European SMEs developing innovative drone technologies with both civil and defence applications.
Through a combination of equity-free funding, tailored business support and technical mentoring, the Programme will help selected SMEs accelerate the development, validation and commercialisation of their innovations while strengthening their position within the European Dual-use market.
About ECDI
The European Cluster for Drone Innovation (ECDI) is a European project funded by the Single Market Programme (SMP COSME). Coordinated by Aerospace Valley, ECDI brings together leading European drone clusters to strengthen the competitiveness, resilience and innovation capacity of SMEs across the European drone value chain.
The consortium is composed of:
- Aerospace Valley (France)
- Andalucía Aerospace (Spain)
- Silesian Aviation Cluster (Poland)
- All-Ukrainian Association of Innovative Space Clusters (Ukraine)
At a glance
- Up to €35,000 in equity-free funding
- 6-month acceleration programme
- Dedicated mentoring and tailored support services
- Support for technology maturation, certification, industrialisation and internationalisation
- Dedicated to European manufacturing SMEs developing Dual-use drone technologies
- Application deadline: 30 September 2026 – 17:00 CEST
Who can apply?
The Open Call targets European manufacturing SMEs active across the drone value chain that:
- qualify as an SME according to the European Commission definition;
- develop and manufacture a drone-related product or technology;
- have a product already demonstrated at TRL 6 or above;
- can demonstrate their positioning within the Dual-use market;
- are committed to increasing the maturity of their product during the six-month Programme.
What does the Programme offer?
Selected SMEs will benefit from a comprehensive support package combining direct financial support with high-value business and technical services.
Each beneficiary will receive:
- up to €35,000 in equity-free funding to implement an Innovation Plan;
- a dedicated mentor throughout the Programme;
- an individual needs assessment;
- access to a portfolio of specialised services tailored to their innovation strategy.
Depending on their needs, SMEs may receive support in areas such as:
- certification and regulatory compliance;
- technology validation and TRL advancement;
- industrialisation and manufacturing readiness;
- access to investment and finance;
- internationalisation;
- digital and green transition;
- networking with the European drone innovation ecosystem.
Why apply?
Beyond financial support, the Programme is designed to help innovative SMEs accelerate their growth and strengthen their market position.
By joining the ECDI Dual-Use Drones Innovative Programme, selected companies will have the opportunity to:
- accelerate the development of their innovation;
- strengthen their competitiveness in both civil and defence markets;
- reduce technological and commercial risks;
- benefit from European-level expertise;
- expand their international network;
- prepare for future investment and market opportunities.
Key dates
Open Call launch: 30 June 2026
Application deadline: 30 September 2026 – 17:00 CEST
Programme duration: 6 months
How to apply?
Applications must be submitted online through the dedicated Wiin.io platform.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult the Guide for Applicants before preparing their proposal. The Guide provides detailed information on the eligibility criteria, required supporting documents, evaluation process and financial conditions.
Useful links
- Apply via the Wiin.io platform
- Download the Guide for Applicants
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Need more information?
If you have any questions regarding your eligibility or the application process, please contact the ECDI coordination team:
Lou-Ann CARBON
European Projects Officer – ECDI Co-Coordinator
carbon@aerospace-valley.com
Laure VIDAL
European Projects Manager – ECDI Coordinator
vidal@aerospace-valley.com
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