At Bourges, a territory at the heart of the defense ecosystem, the 5th edition of the DefStart competition is now accepting applications to detect and support highly innovative projects.
In a context where the importance of technological sovereignty is increasing, startups play a key role in defense innovation. The Bourges Plus Agglomeration Community, through its Defense Industries Resource Center (CID), is opening the applications for DefStart 2026, a competition dedicated to innovative projects related to defense and dual-use applications.
The goal is to identify, support, and establish high-potential startups within a recognized ecosystem.
A program to accelerate innovative projects:
DefStart is open to startups, researchers, students, project leaders, and innovative companies. The expected projects cover various domains including defense, cybersecurity, drones, quantum technologies, MCO, healthcare for the military, pyrotechnics.
A new strategic theme: quantum technologies:
After integrating drones in 2024, this 5th edition expands its scope to include quantum technologies, essential for future defense capabilities and sovereignty.
Up to 30,000 euros and one year of support:
Beyond selection, DefStart provides comprehensive support to foster the development of selected projects. Winners will receive a grant of up to 30,000 euros, free accommodation for a year at the Bourges Plus business incubator, dedicated support within DefStart Accelerator with The Place by CCI 18, and access to a network of industrial, institutional, and financial partners.
These initiatives are designed to facilitate the implementation and accelerate the deployment of innovations.
Selection by an ecosystem of excellence:
Applications are reviewed by a committee of experts in innovation, defense, and finance before being submitted to a jury composed of leading industrial and institutional partners to select the winners.
Bourges, a strategic ecosystem for defense:
Situated in a territory historically centered around defense industries, DefStart allows startups to integrate a unique environment combining institutional actors, industrial partners, and collaborative development and research structures.
Partners include institutions like the Centre-Val de Loire Region, Dev’Up Centre-Val de Loire, CCI du Cher, program The Place by CCI18, MBDA, KNDS, Directorate General of Armaments, INNOVATER Defense Innovation Pole, and other key defense institutions.
This environment provides project leaders with access to expertise, funding, and collaboration opportunities within the ecosystem.
High-potential innovation winners:
In the previous edition, DefStart recognized several projects with high potential, showcasing the diversity of supported innovations and their significant real-world impact.
