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In June 2026, the EIC amended the 2026 work programme to expand funding opportunities for dual-use innovation and introduce a dedicated funding scheme for defence technologies.
Dual-use innovation refers to innovation with a credible commercial case addressing demand in both civilian and defence markets. A technology is therefore not considered dual-use in the EIC context simply because it can potentially be used for both civilian and military purposes. There must be a credible market opportunity in both areas.
Dual-use innovation can be supported through the EIC Accelerator with grants of up to EUR 2.5 million and equity investments of up to EUR 10 million, and through EIC STEP Scale Up with investment of EUR 10-30 million.
Defence technologies are technologies, products or services primarily developed for defence purposes. Unlike dual-use innovation, they do not need to demonstrate a commercial market outside the defence sector. These technologies can be supported through the dedicated EIC STEP Scale Up Defence, which is aimed at European companies seeking to scale critical defence technologies and strengthen Europe’s industrial and technological capacity in the defence sector.
In 2026, EUR 100 million is available under the EIC STEP Scale Up Defence, with EIC Fund investments of EUR 10-30 million as part of larger funding rounds.
The EIC announcement on defence and dual-use technologies on EICs website
Definitions, eligibility and funding conditions at EIC's FAQ on EIC's website
