NATO's Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) published this year’s set of defence and security challenges on June 2, seeking innovative high-tech solutions. Innovators can apply to the call until July 11, 2025.

The challenges are aimed at innovators developing dual-use technologies in the following fields:

• Energy and power,

• Advanced communication technologies,

• Contested electromagnetic environments,

• Human resilience and biotechnology,

• Critical infrastructure and logistics,

• Operations in extreme environments,

• Maritime operations,

• Resilient space operations,

• Autonomy & unmanned systems,

• Data assisted decision making.

If your proposal is successful, you will be selected for DIANA’s 2026 cohort, giving you access to tools for scaling your business, easier navigation through complex defence procurement procedures, and an expanded network of innovative industrial partners, military end-users, potential investors, and mentors.

Selected companies will receive an initial €100,000 in the first round, followed by a selection process. Those selected for the second phase will receive an additional €300,000. Throughout the process, DIANA provides access to mentors and experts from around the world, especially military specialists, and in the later stages, support with investor connections and commercialization. Participants also gain access to over 180 test centers and several DIANA accelerators.

 👉 MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CALL

For assistance, you can contact Ajda Vodlan from the Logistics Directorate at the Ministry of Defence via email at ajda.vodlan@mors.si or by phone at +386 1 471 1099.

You're also invited to attend an "info day" on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, where this year’s call will be presented. You’ll also have the opportunity to directly ask the DIANA Challenge Managers your questions. The event, titled Dual-use Innovations: Opportunities for Slovenian Startups, requires prior registration on the official website.

ABOUT THE EVENT AND REGISTRATION