The European Network of Defence-related Regions (ENDR) brings together more than 100 organisations from 23 European countries. In November 2026, the next edition of the ENDR Conference will be hosted by the Province of North Brabant, in collaboration with the Brabant Development Agency (BOM), Brainport Development and the Dutch Ministry of Defence (the Defence Innovation Team North Brabant).
The conference focuses on the role of deep tech innovations in strengthening both civilian and defence capabilities. We address the key question: how do we translate high-tech and deep tech enabling technologies into concrete defence capabilities for Europe’s future security? What does it take to move innovations from lab to field?
Themes include integrated photonics, wireless optical communication, autonomous systems (including C-UAS), sensing, quantum systems and European and national dual-use funding programs – reflecting both technologies and funding instruments with strong dual-use potential and direct relevance to Europe’s strategic autonomy.
What to expect
Day 1 (25 November) – Plenary day: keynote speakers, interactive workshops, exhibition & networking dinner and matchmaking opportunities.
Day 2 (26 November) – Deep dive: site visits and field trips showcasing North Brabant’s innovation ecosystem (situated around Eindhoven).
