Your Resource for All Things Start2DEF
Need help?
This FAQ page is regularly updated to provide the latest information about the initiative, challenges, and application process. You’ll also find useful resources here, including the presentation used during our online info session. Be aware that we will not record the session.
Check back often as we add new answers to support your Start2DEF journey! Is your question not answered here? Feel free to address us at irsd-start2def@mil.be
Can we make several applications?
Yes. However, a maximum of one application per company will be selected for the program.
Does training of drone units fall within scope?
All testing needed in the scope of your PoC will be reviewed during the evaluation period. Please indicate this clearly on your application should you need/wish to test. Belgian Defence will verify this beforehand and inform you of the possibilities should your PoC be accepted.
My HQ is not in Belgium, but I do have a brand or subsidiary in Belgium. Can I apply?
No, the program is only for Belgian companies with a HQ in Belgium
May we apply as a sole proprietorship ?
Provided you have a belgian enterprise number, you can apply. Otherwise the answer is no.
Does there need to be a software side to the solution or is a pure hardware startup also eligible?
Hardware and software, as well as a combination of both, will be considered.
What does the selection process look like?
Who is going to review?
The review process will be conducted by representatives of IMEC.ISTART, IGNITY and RHID including end-users. RHID has the end-decision of this process.
What do you expect from the video?
What are the service voucher and who will perform them?
What’s the workload?
Consider one day per week during the 8 weeks of the challenges. The days will not always be fully occupied, except for the two bootcamps that are expected to take place on the weeks 2 and 5.
What are the dates we need to block in our agenda?
The agenda is still under preparation and will be shared with the ten participants of the challenges.
Do I have to follow every workshop? Can different founders follow different workshops?
Your participation is expected at all the workshops. Different members of your organization can attend. Attendance to the workshops will be a criteria of selection of the laureates for the challenges.
Who will support us with the PoC within Defense?
Support from Belgian Defence will depend on the technicality of your proof-of-concept. We try to find the most suitable end-user to give feedback on your proposal
What happens after the program? Can we still use your network? Will there be a formal collaboration? What is the goal afterwards?
If we are selected, can we communicate this on our social media?
Yes you can
What language will the program be?
The reference language will be english.
Can we partner with other startups?
Consortia are not allowed, applicants are individual startups or small SMEs.
Where can we use the 20k for?
The 20K voucher can be used for any expense provided it is directly linked to the challenge.
20k will probably not be enough to create a PoC, do you expect us to add to this ourselves when needed?
The aim of the program is not to present a fully operational PoC. Any additional cost above the 20k€ are indeed on your account
Who will be owner of the IP created within the PoC?
Do we have to justify the use of the 20K?
Verification will not be systematic, but random audits are possible after the closing of the challenges.
I could not attend the info session on October 10th 2025, where can I find the slides?
The three presentations used during the info session of October 10th 2025 are available on the following link:
