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Research and Development

Supporting fundamental and applied research, HCDI drives the development of new technologies, enhancing the country’s defence capabilities. Recommending and overseeing, orchestrates the development of the Special Strategic Planning for Research and Development, which establishes general guidelines, identifies key areas of interest, outlines proposed planning and prioritizes research and development Programs. Subsequently, manages the implementation of these programs by issuing relevant calls for interest to economic and research entities, enabling them to respond based on the technical readiness level of their proposals. HCDI provides both financial and non-financial tools to support these initiatives. Also coordinates the creation of prototypes for final testing and subsequently supervises the production of the proposed solutions, ensuring they meet the needs of the Armed Forces while continuously monitoring current and emerging technological developments. Additionally, HCDI undertakes and monitors research and development programs, both within and outside the EU, on behalf the Ministry of National Defence.

Evaluation of Funding Proposals

Evaluates and selects proposals for fundingin coordination with other financial resources, to support implementation programs.

Financial and non-financial tools

Designs and manages the financial tools combining loans, guarantees, co-financing schemes , grants and equity investments to support research and development in defence, security and civil protection. HCDI collaborates with national, European and international equity investment firms, Business Angels and VCs, aiming to absorb existing funding programs in these areas or to design, develop and implement new ones.

Support for Startups and SMEs

HCDI offers innovative, startups and SMEs the opportunity to join incubators and accelerators based on Technology Readiness Levels (TRL), up to Proof of Concept (PoC) and Minimum Viable Product (MVP). HCDI’s support includes guidance, funding and access to advanced facilities. Throughout every stage of a business’s lifecycle HCDI provides guidance, funding, networking and collaboration with relevant entities in Greece, EU member states and international stakeholders. Additionally, it helps innovative companies connect with potential investors and secure funding opportunities, both locally and Internationally.

International Collaborations

HCDI partners with global defence innovation centers and institutions engaging with the European Commission and European entities like the European Defence Agency, European Defence Fund,, NATO Innovation Fund, the North Atlantic DIANA Defence Innovation Accelerator and others, to ensure Greece remains at the forefront of defence technology advancements. The aim is to jointly execute programs, exchange knowledge and technologies and to promote mutual interests in defence technology.

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OFFICE

HCDI facilitates the commercialization of innovative technological ideas connecting military academies, research centers and innovative companies with industry, protecting intellectual property supporting the creation of Spin Offs and fostering business synergies and collaborations. HCDI creates interactions between higher education institutions, military academies, government agencies, technology companies, startups, defence industry companies, and funding organizations, providing them with advice and guidance on integrating into national, European, or other funding programs.

Networking, Training, and Education

Collaborates with research centers and educational institutions, to support the training and development of young scientists and professionals, as well as armed forces, in new technologies and dual-use practices. This includes knowledge exchange, skills development, and the implementation of best practices. HCDI's targeted internship programs, seminars, and workshops help in skill development and prepare participants for the job market.

Deploying Testing Coordination

HCDI acts as a coordinating and mediating body for testing emerging defence products at the European level, utilizing the country’s military test ranges. The Technology Transfer Office (TTO) of the Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation serves as a vital link, connecting research and innovation with industry, the market and society. In detail, the TTO’s activities and services include:

Identification and Assessment of New Technologies

Identification:
Monitoring research activities to spot innovative technologies and research outcomes with commercial potential.
Evaluation:
Analyzing the technological maturity and commercial viability of these new technologies, along with assessing their intellectual property protection potential.
Intellectual property protection

Patent protection:
Assisting in the filing and management of patent applications, including drafting, submission and ongoing management.
Copyright Management:
Offering guidance on protecting of copyright, trademarks and other forms of intellectual property.
Developing Business Strategies and Partnerships

Commercialization strategy:
Crafting strategies for bringing technologies to market, including licensing, rights assignment, and launching of start-ups and /Spin Offs.
Networking and Partnerships:
Building networks with industries, businesses and investors to develop partnerships and advance technology in the market.
Support for the startup creation

Business Mentoring:
Providing consulting services to researchers and entrepreneurs to help them create and grow startups.
Funding:
Assisting in securing funding through investments, grants and startup support programs.
Education - awareness building

Training seminars
Organizing seminars and workshops to educate researchers and entrepreneurs about technology transfer, intellectual property protection and entrepreneurship.
Promoting Innovation:
Raising awareness about the importance of innovation and technology transfer within the academic and business communities.
Management of Technology, Contracts and Agreements

Licensing contracts:
Negotiating and managing technology licensing agreements with companies and industries.
Collaboration agreements:
Establishing and overseeing collaboration agreements between research organizations and companies for the joint develop and commercialization of technologies.

SUSTAINABILITY

Sustainability is core component of the Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation’s strategy. By incorporating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria into its operations, the Center seeks to promote sustainable development and generate added value, contributing to a more sustainable future for the defence industry and society as a whole.

The Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation acknowledges its role in supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement and implements a responsible and sustainable approach. Key Axes:

Environmental Sustainability:

Adhering to environmental regulations and best practices aligned with internationally recognized standards for sustainable development.

Advancing Green Technologies: Researching and developing technologies that minimizes the environmental impact of defense activities, including the use of renewable energy sources and enhancing energy efficiency.
Social Sustainability

Empowering of Human Resources:
Offering ongoing education and training to employees, promoting skill development, equity and career advancement.

Ensuring a safe, fair and equitable workplace.
Corporate Governance

Upholding Strong Corporate Governance: implementing structures, policies and procedures that set high standards for professional conduct and business ethics.

Enhancing transparency, preventing and combating fraud, corruption, bribery and any actions contrary to the Company's Code of Ethics & Conduct.

PARTNERSHIPS

The Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation (HCDI) serves as a crucial pillar in the country’s defence technology and innovation landscape. Its mission is to drive the development of new technologies and solutions for national defence needs, while fostering collaboration across the public and private sectors, academic and research institutions and industries. The collaborations of the Hellenic Center for Defence Innovation encompass:

Universities and Research Institutions

Universities:
Collaborating on research projects and developing cutting-edge technologies in the field of defense industry.
Research Centers:
Working with research centers to promote innovation and advance research in the defense sector.
Collaboration with Industries and Businesses

Greek Defence Industries:
Collaborating with leading Greek defence industries to develop and deploy new technologies and products.
International Industries:
Partnering with global defence industries and companies to facilitate knowledge transfer and create innovative solutions.
Startups:
Supporting and partnering with startups in the defence technology sector through mentorship and funding initiatives.
Cooperation with Government Entities

Ministry of National Defence:
Engaging closely with the Ministry of National Defence to assess needs and priorities in the defence sector and develop effective solutions.
Ministry of Development and Investment:
Cooperation to boost innovation and entrepreneurship in the defence sector by utilizing financial tools and programs.
International Partnerships

European Union:
Participating in European programs and networks to foster the development of innovative defence solutions and technologies.
NATO:
Joining NATO programs and initiatives to enhance defence capabilities and drive technological advancement.
International Organizations:
Collaborating with global organizations and research networks to advance defence innovation and exchange expertise.