— DIANA Challenges 2026 is now open! —
Are you a Sweden-based tech startup with an innovation that could make a real difference, both for civilian use and defense applications? Then take a look at DIANA Challenges 2026, now accepting proposals.
DIANA (Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic) is NATO’s accelerator program for dual-use innovation technologies with both civilian and military applications. The program offers funding, business support, and international exposure for companies developing high-potential solutions.
What is the opportunity?
Between June 2 and July 11, 2025 (12:00 UTC), startups can submit a Short Proposal (max 5 pages) outlining how your technology addresses one of NATO’s 10 priority challenge areas, ranging from energy systems and AI to space tech and decision support.
If selected, your company will receive:
- €100,000 in Phase 1 to further develop your tech within DIANA’s accelerator framework
- A chance to apply for an additional €300,000 in Phase 2 to validate and demonstrate your solution and connect with investors and end users
Who can apply?
The program is open to commercial companies that:
- Are headquartered in a NATO country
- Have a DUNS or UEI number
- Have reached at least Technology Readiness Level 4 (TRL 4)
(Lower TRLs may be accepted if the solution has strong dual-use potential)
How to move forward
- Visit the DIANA Challenges site and explore which of the 10 challenges best fits your tech.
- Prepare a Short Proposal (max 5 pages + a “Quad Chart”).
- Register your company and submit your application no later than July 11, 2025, at 12:00 UTC.
If you are selected for Phase 2, you can submit a full proposal and pitch to an international jury panel.
The timeline is short, but the opportunity is big.
Start working on your application today and take your company to the next level with one of the world’s most exciting dual-use innovation programs.
👉 Apply here: www.diana.nato.int/challenges.htm
NATO’s 10 Focus 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
Need a DUNS Number?
To apply, your company must have a DUNS number, a unique nine-digit identifier issued by Dun & Bradstreet.
Apply for your DUNS number here
