Defence & Dual-use innovation
Strengthening national security is an urgent societal challenge that also offers economic opportunities. At the intersection of security, innovation, and entrepreneurship, Brabant plays a unique role. We support the Ministry of Defence in boosting its innovation capacity. Our focus is on dual-use technologies: solutions that apply to both civilian and military markets.
Innovation engine for security and autonomy
More than 10,000 jobs in Brabant are directly linked to Defence, making it the province’s second-largest employer. From the F35 maintenance center in Woensdrecht to technology hotspot Brainport and locations like Gilze-Rijen and Oirschot, Brabant forms a strategic defence cluster.
The Brabant Development Agency strengthens the collaboration between Defence and the Brabant business community. Through SecFund (€100 million), BITS, and the NATO DIANA programme, we support entrepreneurs with funding, test facilities, and international networks to develop and apply dual-use technologies for a safer society.
Our ecosystem – leading companies & ecosystem locations
Bergen op Zoom
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Aviolanda Air Campus
A training location in development where more than 400 courses will be provided in aviation, in the broadest sense of the word.
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Koninklijke Luchtmacht
The Royal Netherlands Air Force is a modern and technological branch of the armed forces that contributes to freedom, security, and prosperity worldwide. For this purpose, the air force has highly qualified personnel, aircraft, helicopters, and other weapon systems.
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Netherlands Aerospace Centre
The Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre is the central institute for aviation and aerospace research in the Netherlands
Gilze Rijen
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Gate2
Gate2 Gilze-Rijen is a Smart Industry hub that facilitates the development and realization of innovative Smart Factory projects
Eindhoven
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Air Base Eindhoven
Eindhoven is the home base of the Air Mobility Command of the Royal Netherlands Air Force.
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Brainport Industries Campus
Is the very first location where high-tech suppliers innovate and manufacture together, where the most successful companies share high-quality facilities.
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Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)
Is a research university specializing in engineering science & technology.
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The High Tech Campus
In Eindhoven is a world-renowned innovation hub for technology and high-tech companies. It offers state-of-the-art facilities and access to research institutions.
Eindhoven companies
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Etteplan
Etteplan delivers comprehensive Automation and Robotics solutions for machines. plants and production lines and maximizes production performance.
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KMWE
Has decades of experience developing solutions for the following industries: Aerostructures, Aero Engine, Semicon, Healthtech and Industrial.
Gilze Rijen
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Ecosystem locations
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Leading companies