European Parliament Approves €115 Million to Support Defense Startups
The European Parliament has approved the €115 million "AGILE" program to fund startups and small enterprises working in defense technologies, with a majority of 536 votes to 101.
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The European Parliament has approved the €115 million "AGILE" program, a fast-track, targeted funding instrument for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups operating in emerging defense technologies, according to European media outlets including Business News. The program targets small companies that find it difficult to access traditional defense contracts.
A total of 536 members voted in favor of the program, compared to 101 against, with 16 abstentions, giving the instrument broad political backing at a time of growing European focus on defense autonomy. The vote comes amid a wider European debate on increasing defense spending and supporting the domestic industrial base.
The program covers emerging and disruptive technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, robotics, cybersecurity, and space, featuring grant tracks of no more than four months, providing testing and certification environments, and connecting companies with major defense contractors. The program gives companies access to the testing and certification facilities they need before contracting with militaries.
The program requires formal approval from the Council of the European Union before its expected launch in early 2027. It comes as part of European efforts to bridge the funding gap for small companies in the defense sector. If final approval is granted by the Council, the program will begin funding its initial projects thereafter.
What do these terms mean?
Disruptive technologies: New technologies that change the rules of the game in their sector rather than improving existing ones.
Startups and scaleups: Young or fast-growing companies seeking to expand their operations.
Testing and certification environment: A facility or framework that allows technology to be tested and verified against standards before commercialization.
Council of the European Union: An institution comprising ministers from member states that participates in adopting legislation.
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