Limburg launches dedicated business desk for Defence innovation

This desk is one of seven national entry points for entrepreneurs contributing to technological innovations for the Dutch Ministry of Defence, with a particular focus on five strategic development areas: smart materials, sensors, quantum technology, space technology, and intelligent systems. Its launch marks an important step in implementing the Defence Strategy for Industry and Innovation (D-SII) and the Limburg Defence Agenda.

Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas or technologies relevant to Defence can contact the desk via mindbase@mindef.nl 

The Regio Team Limburg is part of the national ODIN programme bureau, which connects regional innovation teams and coordinates alignment with Defence needs. Limburg plays an additional role as national coordinator for the theme of smart materials. 

From the desk, experts from the Ministry of Defence, Brightlands Chemelot Campus and LIOF work together to support entrepreneurs in exploring opportunities, matchmaking, forming consortia, and identifying suitable funding options such as grants or risk capital through SecFund. The emphasis lies on dual-use technologies – innovations with both civilian and military applications that strengthen Defence capabilities while driving economic growth.

First concrete results: Limburg companies developing solutions for Defence

Initial projects show that Limburg-based companies are already responding successfully to Defence needs, including advanced materials and manufacturing technologies. These developments are carried out in close cooperation with Limburg’s vocational, applied sciences and academic institutions (MBO, HBO and WO levels).

Through ODIN, Limburg’s approach is linked to national and European programmes, enabling promising innovations to scale more rapidly into Defence applications and opening new market opportunities for the region.

“The chemical and materials expertise present at Brightlands Chemelot Campus makes Limburg a breeding ground for smart materials, such as advanced 3D printing or materials with unique properties. We see that Limburg is exceptionally well positioned to connect with opportunities and developments across the country,”
says Hugo Leyte, Head of the ODIN Programme Bureau at the Ministry of Defence.

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