CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2026 – STRIKE IT
Cyber Defense Factory (CDF) Program
Cyber Command announces the 2026 Call for Proposals under the Cyber Defense Factory (CDF) initiative. Funding will be made available for innovative projects addressing Cybersecurity for the Internet of Things (IoT). The 2026 theme is: Securing IoT in Defense and Dual-Use Contexts
Our two fully operational factories will host projects:
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CDF6000 (Charleroi – A6K) – Focus on land and air domains
Cybersecurity of connected objects: flying, driving, smart appliances. -
CDF8000 (Brugge – Howest) – Focus on maritime/naval domains
Cybersecurity of connected systems aboard vessels and in port.
Key Facts
- Maximum 6 projects will receive funding per factory
- Funding per project: up to €150,000
- Project duration: max 6 months, completion by December 2026
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL): Output must reach TRL 7
- Dual-use innovation required
- Access to CDF ecosystems and infrastructure provided
Eligibility
- Triple-helix partnerships are preferred but at least one private company must be present in a consortium.
TIMELINE
Contact: strike-it@mil.be