An event on dual-use technologies, European defence innovation and new opportunities for businesses, research organisations and innovation ecosystems.
Europe is in a period of significant transformation in the fields of defence, security and technological innovation. The beginning of dual-use by design, meaning the design of technologies that can be utilised in both civil and defence/strategic applications, creates new connections between civil technology, security needs, industrial competitiveness and Europe's strategic autonomy.
In this context, the forum “European Defence Innovation & the Dual-Use Imperative: From Regional Capabilities to Strategic European Opportunities” will take place on Friday 26 June 2026, 17:00–20:30, to JOIST Innovation Park in Larissa, with free participation and in-person attendance.
The event will examine the new European landscape of defence and dual-use innovation, the policies and funding opportunities emerging through European tools such as the European Defence Fund, EUDIS, EDIP, AGILE and Horizon Europe, as well as the ways in which businesses, research organisations and innovation bodies can participate in new cooperation chains.
Particular emphasis will be placed on connecting European developments with regional innovation ecosystems, such as that of Thessaly. Technological and research capabilities in fields such as digital solutions, cybersecurity, agrifood, logistics, health, advanced materials and industrial innovation can acquire new strategic value in emerging dual-use markets.
Through high-level discussions, the event will bring together representatives from government, industry, the academic and research community, the innovation ecosystem and European defence initiatives, with the aim of mapping existing capabilities, needs and practical pathways for participation in European collaborations.
The event is hosted by JOIST Defence Innovation Hub, which has been established in Larissa as a structured bridge between Greek and European technological innovators and the European defence innovation ecosystem. The Hub aims to support the connection of businesses, researchers and innovation stakeholders with European networks, funding instruments and cooperation opportunities.
The event is aimed at technology companies, startups, research institutions, universities, defence and security actors, public authorities, investors, clusters, hubs, chambers of commerce, innovation support organisations and European/diplomatic representatives.
Date: Friday 26 June 2026
Time: 17:00–20:30
Location: JOIST Innovation Park, Larissa
Participation: Free, registration required. Register Here.
Format: In-person
Agenda
16:30 |
RegistrationsArrival of guests – Event materials and JOIST Defence Hub overview. |
17:00-17:10 |
Welcome address | Recorded video message
|
17:10-17:30 |
Introduction: “What is Dual-Use, Why Now, and the JOIST Defence Innovation Hub”
|
17:30-18:15 |
“Dual-Use Innovation from the Ground Up: The Civilian Perspective”Moderator: Dr. Ioannis Tolias, Managing Partner, Innovatia Systems Speakers
|
18:15-18:30 |
Coffee Break |
18:30-19:15 |
“The European Defence Innovation Landscape: Funding, Access and the Dual-Use Imperative”Moderator: Dimitris Mallas, Journalist CNN Greece Speakers
|
19:15-20:00 |
“Critical Technologies for European Defence: Where Civilian Innovation Meets Military Need”Moderator: Dimitris Mallas, Journalist CNN Greece Speakers
|
20:00-20:30 |
Networking DinnerHosted by the JOIST Defence Innovation Hub |
Note: The event will be held in English.