EIC STEP Scale Up Defence: up to EUR 30 million to scale up defence technologies

Summary

EUR 10 to 30 million in equity for defence companies. This is a business programme (SMEs and small mid-caps), not a grant for civic organisations; Ukrainian companies can apply until 28 October 2026.

About the call

Who can apply

• SMEs or small mid-caps (under 500 staff)
• Established in the EU, associated EEA countries or Ukraine
• Investors on behalf of such companies

Who cannot apply

• Civic and charitable organisations
• Companies controlled by third countries without approved guarantees

What the funds are for

• Equity investment of EUR 10 to 30 million
• Scaling defence technologies
• Access to partners, coaches and mentors

Documents required

Forms and templates are on the call page

• Business plan (max 50 pages)
• Pitch deck (max 15 pages)
• Pre-commitment from a qualified investor
• Financial plan on the EIC template
• Freedom to operate analysis or explanatory note
• CVs of key personnel
• Self-assessment on third-country control
• Letters of intent

How to apply

1. 1Prepare a business plan, pitch deck and financial plan
2. 2Secure an investor pre-commitment for 20% of the round
3. 3Submit via the Funding and Tenders Portal by 28 October 2026
4. 4Attend an EIC jury interview

Questions and answers

Is this a grant or an investment?

It is an equity investment of EUR 10 to 30 million through the EIC Fund, not a grant. Each EIC investment should catalyse a round of EUR 50 to 150 million or more.

Is another investor required for an EIC STEP Scale Up Defence application?

Yes. A pre-commitment from a qualified investor covering at least 20% of the target round is required.

Change history

1. 29 September 2026Updated: Source switched to the EIC page; clarified: equity for defence businesses, not an NGO grant; conditions added