UniLab Defence
Fostering the defence technology ecosystem in Latvia and across NATO
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Partners & Initiatives
UniLab Defence is a strategic priority area within UniLab, supported by the Latvian Ministry of Defence and the four Latvian science universities with the purpose of fostering the development of the defence technology ecosystem in Latvia and across NATO.

This includes multiple internal initiatives such as DIANA accelerator and a national pre-accelerator as well as collaboration projects such as EUDIS BAMM and Drone Summit.
DIANA acceleration program
UniLab Defence is part of DIANA - Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic, an organisation established by NATO to find and accelerate dual-use innovation capacity across the Alliance.
DIANA provides companies with the resources, networks and guidance to develop deep technologies to solve critical defence and security challenges, from operating in denied environments to tackling threats to our collective resilience.
The Riga program ran by UniLab Defence is expected to be operationalised in 2026.
Pre-accelerator program
(launching mid 2025)
Participating teams in UniLab pre-accelerator program will gain accelerated financial support, invaluable market insights, specialized training tailored to defence industry, opportunities for corporate collaboration, and platforms to showcase their capabilities to potential partners.
  • Dual-Use focus
    Gain insights into the intricacies of and interrelations between the commercial and defence markets to establish a robust dual-use business model.
  • Mentorship
    Engage with experienced procurement professionals, operational end users, industry leaders and members of the Allied defence and security establishments in the NATO network.
  • Customer and market exploration
    Learn the methodologies to investigate new markets, work with end users and customers to understand their needs, and identify strategic opportunities in both commercial and defence markets.
  • Investor engagement
    Develop refined pitch decks, learn fundraising strategies and negotiation skills, and build relationships with trusted investors (including the NATO Innovation Fund).
  • Events and networking
    Participate in in-person events, online workshops, and local gatherings, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and synergies among start-ups, industry partners, and end users.
  • Protection and risk mitigation
    Understand the importance of intellectual property protection, cybersecurity, and physical solutions to safeguard innovations and mitigate risks.
Pre-registration
Defence and dual-use startups from Latvia are encouraged to express their interest in participating in the pre-acceleration program to be among the first ones to receive the news on program timeline, applications and other aspects.
Pitch Deck
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