Investment opportunities for startups in defence and dual‑use technology

What does this mean for startups?

This scheme is not intended for startups to apply for directly. The funding is made available to investment funds.
However, for startups this means:

• more investors with a focus on defence and dual‑use technology
• larger investment funds actively seeking startups
• increased attention for technologies with security or defence applications

In short: more opportunities for funding and growth.

Which startups is this relevant for?

Startups may attract the attention of investors participating in this scheme if they:

• work on technological innovations
• operate in defence or dual‑use applications (both civil and military)
• are active in one or more of the following technology areas:
  • intelligent systems
  • sensors
  • smart materials
  • space technology
  • quantum technology

In addition, the scheme aligns with applications in defence and security domains such as cyber and digital security, autonomous and unmanned systems (for example drones), logistics, training & simulation, and data & intelligence.

How does the financing work?

• The government makes funding available to investment funds
• These funds can have their investments co‑financed by the government
• This enables them to make more — and larger — investments in startups

A substantial portion of the scheme’s budget is reserved specifically for dual‑use technologies.

And for investors and funds?

Venture capital funds that are active in defence or dual‑use technology can apply for this scheme. The scheme is implemented on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. Applications can be submitted to RVO until 31 March.

For startups in Twente working in high‑tech, security or deep tech, this is an important signal: defence and dual‑use technology are firmly on the investment agenda. This creates opportunities to sharpen your positioning and engage with investors who are actively focusing on these domains.

Voor startups in Twente die werken aan hightech, veiligheid of deeptech is dit een belangrijk signaal: defensie en dual‑use technologie staan nadrukkelijk op de investeringsagenda. Dat biedt kansen om je technologie scherper te positioneren en het gesprek aan te gaan met investeerders die zich hierop richten.