CzechInvest in cooperation with the Ministery of Defence of the Czech Republic announced today the launch of the DEFENCE HUB, a strategic initiative designed to accelerate innovation and technological advancement in the nation’s defence and dual-use sectors.
Responding to the impetus of the NATO DIANA initiative, the DEFENCE HUB will serve as a central information and acceleration hub, fostering collaboration between startups, established commercial entities, and state institutions. This dynamic platform will empower innovators to develop cutting-edge solutions that address critical Defence challenges and drive economic growth through dual-use applications.
“I am pleased that we are successfully bringing the Defence Hub to life in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence. Strengthening CzechInvest’s role in this area was one of the things I set out to do when I joined the agency last year,” said Jan Michal, CEO of CzechInvest.
“The launch of the DEFENCE HUB marks a pivotal moment for the Czech Republic,” stated Leos Mauer DEFENCE HUB´S Director at CzechInvest. “By providing targeted support and fostering collaboration, we are creating an ecosystem where innovation can thrive, strengthening our Defence capabilities, and generating significant economic opportunities.“
The DEFENCE HUB operates on two core pillars:
- Contact Point: The DEFENCE HUB team will proactively identify and promote relevant opportunities and grants at the national and European levels. This includes key initiatives such as DIANA, the NATO Innovation Fund (NIF), and the European Defence Fund (EDF), alongside other programs focused on start-up ventures. The HUB will also cultivate and maintain strong relationships with commercial and state entities within the Defence sector, facilitating crucial connections with the Czech innovation landscape.
- Accelerator Preparation: A key function of the DEFENCE HUB is to scout and support start-ups with high potential, guiding them through the application process for initiatives like NATO DIANA. Looking ahead, the DEFENCE HUB will play a crucial role in running a national DIANA Accelerator Czechia, which will operate as part of the broader NATO DIANA network.
The DEFENCE HUB provides a comprehensive suite of services, including:
- Consultation: Expert guidance and support for start-ups and innovators.
- Events: Networking opportunities, workshops, and industry gatherings.
- Foreign Partners: Facilitating connections with international organizations and collaborators.
- Technology Incubation: Support for early-stage companies to develop and scale their technologies.
“The Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic welcomes and supports this initiative,” said Radka Konderlová, Director For Industrial Cooperation. “The DEFENCE HUB will be instrumental in fostering the development of advanced technologies that are crucial for our national security and contribute to the broader security of the Alliance.”
For more information about the Defence HUB, click here.
Source: CzechInvest
