New funding and support opportunity has been announced:Â ECDI Civil Drones Innovative Programme
The European drone ecosystem SMEs now have a unique chance to secure up to €50,000 in equity‑free funding to advance next‑gen civil and dual‑use drone technologies.
An Open Call under the European Cluster for Drone Innovation (ECDI) is now live.
It targets companies ready to:
– scale,Â
– mature, andÂ
– internationalise their drone solutions.
What this programme supports:
• Development and maturation of dual‑use drone technologies
• Upgrading an existing drone product’s TRL from 6+ by at least one level
• Innovations aligned with green and digital (twin) transition priorities
• Strengthening SME innovation strategies and tech development roadmaps
The Programme aims to support around 25 SMEs and the project duration is 6 months.
Who can apply?
• Manufacturing SMEs established in EU Member States or countries in the EU Single Market Programme
• SMEs with at least one drone product at TRL 6 or higher
• Applicants willing to contribute 20% private co‑financing
• Companies targeting civil and defence/security markets with dual‑use potential
💶 Funding & support package:
Up to €50,000 in equity‑free funding (80% funding rate)
Plus access to:
– Personalised mentorship
– Technical, regulatory, business & testing services
– Training & internationalisation support
– Participation in the Innovation Drone Alliance
– A strong European network of specialised partners
📅 Key date
Deadline for applications: 16 March 2026, 17:00 CET
👉 Call to Action
If you’re a drone SME in the EU: This is your moment.
See more details here: https://www.clustercollaboration.eu/content/civil-drones-innovative-programme-0