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Program

Dual Use

With a strong track record in scaling up dual-use companies, LEAD is a natural partner for startups developing technology with both civilian and defense-related applications.

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LEAD is Sweden’s accelerator within NATO DIANA—NATO’s innovation organization for the development of new technologies relevant to both civilian and military applications.

The call for applications for the 2027 program closes on July 3, 2026.

https://www.diana.nato.int/challenges.html

LEAD was the first organization in Sweden to implement the Civil-Military Innovation Program 2025, a joint initiative by Vinnova and the Swedish Armed Forces. The program is aimed at Swedish small and medium-sized enterprises with innovative solutions that can be further developed for use in the military defense sector.

The next call for proposals will be issued in August.

https://www.vinnova.se/e/civil-military-synergies/acceleration-of-civil-military-innovations-2027/

LEAD provides ongoing support to startups interested in accelerating their growth in the dual-use sector. Fill out the interest form below, and we’ll get back to you shortly.

Become a member
Location
In which city is your team primarily located at the moment? LEAD mainly works with companies in Östergötland or those with a strong connection to the region.
Briefly describe the idea/product/service and how it connects to the customer’s problem. (1–2 sentences)
What is the problem you believe your product/service solves? Who has this problem?
How does your product/service solve the problem? What benefits does your solution/product provide to your intended customers? What is different / unique / new / innovative / disruptive about your solution/product? How far along are you in product development and validation?
Describe your intended customer and who your future user is. How can the customer value be assessed?
Who is behind the idea? What knowledge/background are you bringing into the project? (Provide the names of all founders and their roles within the project/company)
State the number of female/male founders in your team.
Book an initial meeting with a coach
The meeting will be about 45 minutes. Would you like to meet in person at LEAD in Linköping (Teknikringen 7) or digitally for your first meeting?
GDPR

Testimonials

What do previous participants think?

In 2025, Sweden’s first accelerator program took place at LEAD. Hear what former participants have to say about the program.

Watch the video