About the DIANA Challenge Programme

DIANA is a programme that uses ‘challenges’ to identify emerging and disruptive technologies which can fulfil capability needs of the Alliance. Challenges are therefore based on the priority technology areas of NATO, Allied nations, the latest trends in emerging and disruptive technologies, and market potential.

DIANA issues its challenges publicly through Challenge Calls. Innovators can submit proposals in response to these challenges. Companies that are competitively selected based on their proposed solutions will be invited to join the DIANA Challenge Programme, signing a framework agreement to become “DIANA innovators” and continue iterating the solution they proposed in response to the challenge.

The DIANA Challenge Programme (often referred to simply as the DIANA Programme) is DIANA’s overarching programme – it is an ongoing transparent and competitive process and after selection through the Challenge Call, it is comprised of two primary phases: Accelerator Programme Phase 1 and Accelerator Programme Phase 2.

Accelerator Programme Phase 1 includes a tailored accelerator curriculum delivered across DIANA’s accelerator sites, which consists of in-person and virtual training modules, testing opportunities, tailored mentorship and networking engagements to build companies into viable dual-use ventures. The curriculum is delivered by a network of accelerators across the Alliance, working closely with DIANA’s staff in London (United Kingdom), Tallinn (Estonia) and Halifax (Canada).

This six-month acceleration period equips start-ups with the skills and knowledge required to navigate the world of defence, security and dual-use innovation. Harnessing the expertise and connections of accelerator sites, test centres and various innovation communities across the Alliance, DIANA works to create a resilient and collaborative network of expertise for innovators to benefit from.

After completion of Phase 1, innovators may seek down-selection to Accelerator Programme Phase 2, where a selection of the cohort will be provided with further accelerator programming, including more tailored and specialised support delivered by commercialisation and investment experts.

After completing Phase 1 and/or Phase 2, innovators join DIANA’s alumni network, where they remain active members of the DIANA ecosystem, participating in events and working with Allied nations to connect their solutions to end-users.

DIANA innovators, having entered into a framework agreement with DIANA, become eligible to access the DIANA test centre network and may participate in operational experimentation. Furthermore, if requested by Allies and/or NATO entities, DIANA innovators may be awarded follow-on contracts without further competition, including for research, prototyping, and/or production.