Deftech North

DefTech North is a BusinessOulu-led initiative supporting Northern Finnish SMEs in entering the defence and dual-use technology markets. The project addresses the high entry barriers, limited networks, and commercialization challenges faced by technology companies in the Oulu region, despite their strong expertise in connectivity, distributed computing, and cybersecurity.

Key actions:

• Building support structures to help SMEs develop scalable, internationally competitive solutions for the defence sector.
• Organizing targeted coaching, workshops, and matchmaking events to strengthen business skills, open funding channels, and connect companies with defence sector integrators and testing platforms.
• Promoting collaboration with universities and research institutions, and establishing a permanent innovation network for piloting and market entry.
• Enhancing the region’s visibility in national and international defence innovation networks, including the EU and NATO.

Main goals:

• Strengthen the business opportunities of SMEs in the defence sector.
• Align technology profiles and product development with concrete defence needs.
• Facilitate access to regional and international testbeds and pilot environments.
• Support SMEs in finding funding and strategic partners.
• Build and consolidate a regional innovation ecosystem focused on defence and dual-use technologies.

Long-term impact:
The project aims to establish Oulu as a recognized platform for defence and security technology development, increasing the role of local SMEs in European and global value chains. The results and best practices will be shared openly, and the innovation network will continue to operate after the project, supporting ongoing collaboration and new initiatives.

Project partners:
The project is implemented in cooperation with Oulu University of Applied Sciences and supports the activities of the University of Oulu.