A strategic pivot in Europe’s innovation policy: The European Innovation Council (EIC) is expanding into defence and dual-use technologies, allowing start-ups and SMEs to access grants of up to EUR 2.5 million and equity investments of up to EUR 30 million.
For biotech start-ups and SMEs, this creates new opportunities to scale innovations with both medical and security applications, e.g. in diagnostics, biosecurity or advanced materials. The move strengthens access to growth capital and positions dual-use biotech as a strategic pillar for Europe’s technological sovereignty and resilience.
Read more: The European Innovation Council opens to defence and dual-use technologies
For more information, join the dedicated info session on 24 June, consult the factsheet, and review the amended EIC Work Programme 2026.