NATO DIANA Accelerator: international driver of dual-use innovation
Accelerator The Gate Brainport
DIANA – Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic – was established by NATO to help develop dual-use technologies, maintain technological superiority, and defend one billion citizens while preserving peace and security. DIANA strengthens connections, unites efforts, and ensures harmonization within the alliance.
Accelerator for groundbreaking dual-use technology
DIANA selects the best dual-use innovators from the 32-member countries; innovators developing technologies with both civilian and military applications. They are given the opportunity to participate in a unique accelerator program focused on rapid adoption in a defence context. The program is implemented through a network of 17 accelerators spread across the alliance.
Innovators receive tailored support to refine their dual-use business models and validate defence-specific use cases. A key component of this is gaining access to a network of armed forces, defence industries, investors, NATO, and governments.
From validation to product-market fit
Phase 1 of DIANA runs from January to June and focuses on validating and testing dual-use innovations with the goal of accelerating adoption and achieving product-market fit.
During this period, a wide range of themes will be addressed, from business development and market exploration to an overview of the Dutch Defence ecosystem.
Further development of the most promising innovations
The second phase of the programme starts in September, when a new selection takes place and some of the innovators receive another grant and support to continue developing their innovations through February.
Accelerator The Gate Brainport
The Gate Brainport is one of the 17 accelerator sites across NATO territory where the international programme is delivered. In this region, we know better than anyone what it means to help deep tech start-ups through the various stages of their development towards scale-up and beyond. We have a wide range of tools, programmes and a network of experienced venture developers, mentors and experts at our disposal.
The region distinguishes itself through triple-helix collaboration: close ties between industry, government, and knowledge institutions. In addition, Defence is the second-largest employer in Brabant and is therefore prominently present in our province. Thanks in part to its advanced technological expertise, Brabant and the Brainport region have a great deal to offer as an innovation hotspot within NATO.
Interested? How to register for DIANA
Registration for NATO DIANA takes place annually in May or June. Want to stay up to date? Follow the right channels and prepare yourself well.
The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) regularly organises information sessions to help you formulate your proposal. The official challenges will be announced as soon as registration opens.
The selection procedure is carried out entirely by NATO. Accelerator locations, such as The Gate Brainport, have no influence on this.
News & updates
Accelerator Team The Gate Brainport
Are you interested in the NATO DIANA programme, do you have any questions, or would you like to contribute in any way in 2026? Please contact the Accelerator Team The Gate Brainport.
