The latest innovation challenges of the NATO Defense Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) have been launched.
These calls are specifically aimed at startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working on the development of dual-use technologies. The goal is to support innovations that serve both civilian applications and enhance NATO's defense capabilities.
DIANA's thematic calls — known as Challenges — particularly encourage participation from actors in the civilian sector. Applications must be submitted online and in English by Friday, July 11, 2025, at 12:00 PM (noon).
The 2026 Challenges focus on the following 10 key technological areas:
- Energy & Power
- Advanced Communication Technologies
- Contested Electromagnetic Environments
- Human Resilience & Biotechnology
- Operations in Extreme Environments
- Maritime Operations
- Resilient Space Operations
- Critical Infrastructure & Logistics
- Autonomy & Unmanned Systems
- Data-Assisted Decision Making
Selected applicants will automatically be enrolled in DIANA’s six-month accelerator program, during which they will:
- Receive contractual funding of €100,000 to further develop their innovative solution,
- Gain access to over 180 NATO-validated test centers across Europe and North America,
- Participate in an intensive mentoring and development program,
- Receive international business development support.
At the end of the program, the most successful participants will be eligible to apply for additional funding.
More information: https://www.diana.nato.int/challenges.html