Matchmaking: Industry meets industry – international cooperation in the defence sector

19/11/2025
Matchmaking: Industry meets industry – international cooperation in the defence sector

On 19 November 2025, the day before the NEDS – NIDV Exhibition for Defence & Security, international cooperation in the defence and security industry will take centtre stage in Rotterdam. At ‘Defence Industry Matchmaking 2025’, companies, research institutions and start-ups will exchange ideas on new technologies, business opportunities and potential collaborations. This event is organised by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) in collaboration with the NIDV. BayFOR is co-organiser  as a partner in the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN).

The EDF matchmaking session in the morning will focus on current calls for proposals and consortium formation within the framework of the European Defence Fund (EDF).

EDF matchmaking (9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.)
Focus: European Defence Fund (EDF)

• For companies, research institutions and universities eligible to participate in the EDF

• Ideal opportunity to find partners for EDF projects in 2025

• Latest information on EDF calls for proposals, funding conditions and consortium formation

The afternoon will focus on global matchmaking, which promotes international partnerships and industrial participation.

Global matchmaking (1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
Focus: International cooperation and industrial participation

• For all participants interested in global defence projects

• Exchange of information on business opportunities, participation programmes and new technologies

Unfortunately, both sessions are now fully booked. This shows how great the interest is in European and global networking in the defence sector.

Background: European Defence Fund (EDF)

The European Defence Fund (EDF) is the central EU funding programme for research and development in the defence sector (2021–2027).

The aim of the programme is to

• strengthen cooperation and interoperability between EU Member States,

• expand technological and industrial capabilities in Europe, and

• support joint innovation projects – from basic research to prototype development.

With its financial support, the EDF contributes to securing Europe's strategic autonomy in the defence sector and strengthening the innovative power of European industry.

Venue

Rotterdam Ahoy
Ahoyweg 10
3084BA Rotterdam
Netherlands

Event time

Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Contact at BayFOR

Dr. Alexander Widmann
Team Coordination and Scientific Officer 
Social Sciences and Humanities | Security and Defense Research
Phone: +49 89 9901888-162
Email: widmann@no-spam-pleasebayfor.org

Natalia García Mozo
Head of Unit SME Advisory Services
Tel: +49 89 9901888-171
Email: mozo@no-spam-pleasebayfor.org


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