Deadline Date: June 15, 2026
The Civil Drones Innovative Programme is inviting applications from SMEs developing innovative civil and dual-use drone technologies through funding, mentorship, and market access support.
The focus areas, of this programme include the technological maturation of drone solutions, the structuring of innovation strategies, and access to civil and defence-related markets. It also focuses on providing individual assessments, roadmap development, technical and regulatory guidance, business and testing services, training, internationalisation support, and participation in innovation networks such as the Innovation Drone Alliance. Additionally, it includes equity-free funding linked to innovation plans and compliance with EU funding requirements.
The Civil Drones Innovative Programme is designed to help SMEs strengthen their drone technologies and innovation capabilities while expanding their access to both civil and defence-related markets. It supports companies in improving their technical readiness and developing structured strategies for growth and market integration.
Selected SMEs receive tailored mentorship, technical and regulatory support, and assistance in building and implementing innovation roadmaps. The programme also provides opportunities for training, testing services, and internationalisation support to help companies scale their solutions effectively.
A key component of the programme is financial support, with up to €50,000 in equity-free funding provided under the Innovation Plan. This funding is delivered through direct support mechanisms and must be used for eligible project activities in compliance with EU funding rules.
Applicants must be manufacturing SMEs operating in the drone sector with at least one product at TRL 6 or higher and a commitment to further technological advancement during the programme. Companies must meet EU SME criteria, maintain independence, and comply with financial and legal eligibility requirements, including restrictions related to insolvency, fraud, or exclusion from EU funding.
The programme ensures that only eligible SMEs focused on product development and technological improvement are supported, excluding applicants that focus solely on market access or do not meet the required technical maturity level.
For more information, visit ECDI.
