The MaJoR project, funded by the European Defence Fund, has launched Open Call 1 to support innovative solutions for next-generation defence technologies.
In this call, the organisers plan to support around 30 innovators (legal entities) that will act as technology and solution providers. Moreover, selected applicants will address five thematic areas linked to innovation challenges across three defence-related domains.
As a result, successful applicants will receive funding of up to EUR 60,000. In addition, they will join a six-month support programme that combines financial support, mentoring, and project development activities.
Call topics
First, applicants must choose one topic. Then, they should propose a solution within its scope:
- Hybrid structures for defence platforms, including multi-material design, joining technologies and reversible interfaces
- Innovative joining technologies and processes for multi-material defence structures
- Structural Health Monitoring (SHM), Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS) and embedded sensor architectures for next-generation defence platforms
- Non-destructive testing (NDT) for bonded joints, including maintenance, repair, initial bonding design and diagnostics for hybrid and composite structures
- Digitalisation, artificial intelligence and decision-support tools for structural assessment and defence maintenance
Who can apply
The call targets small and medium-sized enterprises, including startups, established in eligible countries. Specifically, eligible countries include the 27 EU Member States, Norway, and Ukraine.
However, applicants must meet ownership control restrictions. Additionally, they must comply with ethical, security, operational, and financial capacity requirements defined by the programme.
Funding and key dates
Maximum funding per project: up to EUR 60,000
Programme duration: six months
Application deadline: 25 March 2026, 12:00 (CET)
How to apply
To apply, submit the application online and follow the official call guidelines published by the MaJoR project.
Full call details, eligibility criteria and application documentation are available at: major-project.eu
For more opportunities in innovation, defence technologies and EU-funded programmes, explore the grants section on GetGrant.