Local organisers
Local organisers are selected ecosystem partners responsible for hosting 5-day DefTech Forge bootcamps in their countries. They work closely with the consortium to deliver each local edition, mobilise the national defence innovation ecosystem, engage public and military stakeholders, and ensure a high-quality on-site experience for participating Start-ups and SMEs. Please see the application guide for local organisers.
Why become a local organiser?
- Be part of a European Commission initiative delivered in collaboration with EDA and Brave1
- Receive up to €80,000 to support the organisation of the local 5-day bootcamp
- Gain visibility as a key player in the national defence innovation ecosystem
- Connect with leading Start-ups, SMEs, industry actors, public bodies, and defence stakeholders
- Strengthen your role as a bridge between local innovation and European defence priorities
Roles & Responsibilities
Venue & Testing Access
Secure a suitable venue incl. access to military testing facilities and/or operational environments.
Military & Stakeholder Engagement
Engage local military representatives and public stakeholders to help align challenges with operational needs and secure their participation.
Innovation Network Outreach
Promote the initiative across local, national, and European innovation networks.
Start-up & SME Selection
Lead the attraction and support selection of 15–20 high-quality Start-up and SME teams.
Mentor & Expert Mobilisation
Mobilise mentors, experts, industry partners, and public-sector stakeholders for the bootcamp.
Local Communications
Run local communication activities before, during, and after the event, including media outreach, photos, and videos.
Event Materials & Awards
Prepare local event materials, participant welcome packs, and award-related materials in line with consortium guidance.
Strategic Challenges
Sensing & Field Operations
Challenge 1
Tactical Blue-ForceTrackers & Life-Sign Monitoring
Challenge 2
Unattended Ground Sensors (UGS) for Multi-Domain Detection
Challenge 3
Subterranean Autonomous Engineering Systems
UAS & Precision Strike
Challenge 4
Multi-Mode RF Seekers for Strike Platforms
Challenge 5
Autonomous Strike UAS & Swarm Coordination
Challenge 6
RF Seekers & Terminal Guidance for Precision Engagement
Resilience & Integration
Challenge 7
EW-Resilient UAS Operations
Challenge 8
Rapid Battlefield Adaptation & Modular Systems
Challenge 9
Cooperative Engagement & Sensor-to-Shooter Integration
Become a local organiser
Apply now to host a DefTech Forge and support Europe’s defence innovators as they develop solutions for real-world operational needs.
Local organiser selection timeline Cycle #2
Local organisers overview
The BraveTech EU DefTech Forge initiative collaborates with selected local organisers across Europe to host 5-day DefTech Forge bootcamps and activate national defence innovation ecosystems.
