In Bourges, a territory at the heart of the defense ecosystem, the 5th edition of the DefStart competition is open for applications to detect and support highly innovative projects. In the context of increasing technological sovereignty issues, startups play a crucial role in defense innovation. Bourges Plus Community of Agglomeration, through its Defense Industries Resources Center (CID), is launching the DefStart 2026 competition dedicated to innovative projects related to defense and dual uses.
The aim is to identify, support, and establish startups with high potential within a recognized ecosystem.
A program to accelerate innovative projects.
DefStart targets startups, researchers, students, project leaders, and innovative companies. Expected projects cover areas such as defense, cybersecurity, drones, quantum technologies, MCO, healthcare for armed forces, and pyrotechnics.
A new strategic theme: quantum technologies.
Following the integration of drones in 2024, this 5th edition expands to include quantum technologies, crucial for future defense capabilities and sovereignty.
Up to 30,000 euros and one year of support.
In addition to selection, DefStart offers comprehensive support to facilitate the development of selected projects. Winners will receive a grant of up to 30,000 euros, free accommodation for a year at Bourges Plus’ business incubator, dedicated support within DefStart’s Accelerator with The Place by CCI 18, and privileged access to a network of industrial, institutional, and financial partners.
These initiatives are designed to ease implementation and accelerate the deployment of innovations.
Selection by an excellent ecosystem.
Applications are reviewed by a committee of experts from innovation, defense, and finance sectors, before being submitted to a jury of prominent industrial and institutional partners to select the winners.
Bourges, a strategic ecosystem for defense.
Located in a historical territory structured around defense industries, the DefStart competition allows startups to integrate a unique environment that brings together institutional actors, industries, and collaborative development and research structures.
Among the partners are the Centre-Val de Loire Region, Dev’Up Centre-Val de Loire, CCI du Cher with its program The Place by CCI18, MBDA, KNDS, the Directorate General of Armament, the Defense Innovation Pole INNOVATER of the DGA Ground Techniques center, integrating military establishments in Bourges, Avord Air Base, the School of Train and Operational Logistics, the Defense Innovation Agency, and the GICAT.
This environment enables project leaders to access expertise, financing, 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.
These winners demonstrate the program’s ability to identify and support innovative solutions with significant impact.
