BRUSSELS / EuroWire / – The European Union has endorsed a €115 million funding scheme aimed at accelerating the development of defence technologies. Known as AGILE, the Programme for Agile and Rapid Defence Innovation will target smaller enterprises working on emerging and disruptive innovations. The Council of the European Union finalized the formal approval on October 12. This initiative offers start-ups, scale-ups, and other qualifying companies a dedicated pathway to finance defence products, enabling shorter development cycles and funding processes.
Supporting both new military technologies and civilian products adaptable for defence applications, AGILE aims to provide a swift grant award process, targeting completion within four months from application submission. Technologies supported are expected to reach defence users within one to three years. Grants will range from €1 million to €5 million, with rules allowing projects to receive support covering up to 100% of eligible costs.
The European Commission anticipates funding approximately 20 to 30 projects during its initial phase. Eligible companies can claim certain project expenses incurred up to three months before the closing of a funding call, ensuring continuous development during the application process. AGILE will finance mission-oriented technological advancements and activities that facilitate the transition of completed products to defence markets. Additionally, the programme aims to foster quicker connections between innovative suppliers, testing facilities, and established defence firms.
AGILE broadens opportunities for defence testing and procurement
Participants selected for AGILE will gain enhanced access to testing and experimentation infrastructure across participating European countries. The framework also promotes collaborations between smaller tech developers and larger defence manufacturers. EU member states will contribute to defining programme challenges based on specific defence capability needs. The scheme also streamlines procurement processes for products developed within AGILE, offering an alternative route for funded technologies to enter defence supply chains and operational deployment.
Participants from EU member states and associated nations can qualify for the programme. Ukraine is included, along with eligible countries within the European Economic Area and European Free Trade Association. Companies can apply independently where permitted by programme rules, and consortium applications will still be accepted. The first call for proposals is projected for early 2027. AGILE is expected to become operational once the regulation completes the final legal and publication procedures.
Legal finalization sets the stage for 2027 funding start
The European Parliament approved the legislation on October 6 after negotiators reached a political agreement in July. The proposal for AGILE was first introduced in March 2026. Now, formal adoption awaits signatures and publication before the regulation takes effect. The Presidents of the Parliament and Council must sign the document, followed by publication in the EU Official Journal. The regulation will enter into force 20 days after publication.
AGILE will run parallel to existing European defence research and industrial programmes. Its €115 million budget targets smaller suppliers and technology firms seeking faster access to defence funding. The scheme combines grants, testing opportunities, and procurement options within a unified funding structure. Designed for quicker award timelines and rapid progression from development to operational deployment, the programme’s first funding round in 2027 will mark its active launch across participating European markets.