Technology with both Civilian and Military Applications
Military Applications of Innovation
Many innovations in fields such as AI, cybersecurity, Biotechnology, space, energy, drones, and advanced sensors have direct relevance for defense.
Technology developed for the Swedish Armed Forces is often attractive to international defense markets. Sweden holds a strong position as an exporter of defense equipment, and the defense market is global. A successful product can open doors to international opportunities and significantly increase growth potential.
Defense organizations also have access to advanced expertise, test facilities, and unique data that can be difficult to obtain in the civilian sector. Collaboration with the defense sector can accelerate product development and validation.
Dual-Use Technologies
Military applications of civilian technologies – known as dual-use – are key to efficiently modernizing and strengthening defense capabilities by leveraging developments in the civilian tech sector.
This requires broad thinking about how technologies can be applied and building bridges between innovation ecosystems and business to create a strong and innovative defense capability.
Both Civilian and Military value
By developing technology that serves both civilian and military purposes, companies can spread R&D costs across a broader base. This leads to more efficient use of resources and greater societal value.
Companies that develop dual-use technologies can target multiple markets, increasing their potential for growth and export.
Why enter the Defense market
Dual-use technologies enable companies to serve both civilian and military markets, reducing business risk and increasing market potential.
Having the Swedish Armed Forces as a customer also adds significant credibility and serves as a powerful reference. It signals that the product is robust, secure, and meets high standards – qualities valued in both public and private sectors
Program for Military Applications
Swedish startups will receive a fast-track introduction and tailored roadmap for entering the defense market.
Participating companies receive local business development support from experienced coaches with entrepreneurial backgrounds, mentorship, and access to subject-matter experts in defense innovation. The program also provides visibility in relevant contexts, valuable industry connections, and direct contact with key representatives from the Swedish Armed Forces and the defense industry.
Who Can Participate?
We’re looking for innovative, growth-oriented startups and scaleups that are ready to explore and enter the defense market.
The program is open to startups currently developing a new product or those with an established product or service.
Introduction program – Format
- Program Goal: Participating companies should be able to make a strategic decision on whether the defense and security sector is a prioritized business area and, if so, develop an initial business plan for market entry.
- Refine and stress-test its core business – including business strategies, team development, operational routines, and investor readiness.
- Expand their networks, build connections with need owners and investors, and gain deeper insights into key stakeholders within the defense innovation ecosystem.
- Format: Hybrid (both in-person and online sessions)
- Tailored business coaching from experienced entrepreneurs and former military professionals
- Joint networking events and program workshops
- Visibility at defense innovation events
- Pitch and presentation opportunities to relevant contacts within the defense industry and the Swedish Armed Forces
- UIC-offers: Invitations to UIC events
- Exclusive partner offers (e.g. IP, legal, marketing, finance, and technology development)
- Access to Innovation Stable co-working space at Uppsala Science Park
- Timeline: January 2026 – June 2026
- Partners: UIC, IDEON, LEAD, STING och INNOVATUM
Program Modules
Apply to the Introduction Program
Fill in the application form via the button below to join the introduction program
focused on military applications of civilian innovations.
Att ha någon utifrån att bolla med är avgörande i en utvecklingsfas. Risken att bli för introvert minskar dramatiskt och samarbetet med UIC ger oss stöd att klara utvecklingsarbetet utan att tappa kunderna på vägen.
Mona Österberg, CEO Mercodia