BIRD HLS (Homeland Security)

BIRD HLS (Homeland Security)

Offers homeland security startups and researchers focused support through BIRD HLS networking and mentorship.

Eligibility · United States, Israel

BIRD HLS (Homeland Security) is a vertical programme of the BIRD Foundation — the Israel-U.S. Binational Industrial Research and Development Foundation established in 1977 — dedicated to fostering joint U.S.-Israeli development of advanced technologies for the homeland security mission. The programme is authorised under a bilateral agreement between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Israeli Ministry of National Security (IMNS), with the BIRD Foundation serving as programme administrator. It targets dual-use technologies with clear homeland security application potential and a realistic path to commercialisation in both the U.S. and Israeli markets.

Conditional grants of up to $1 million per project cover no more than 50% of the joint R&D budget; repayment is triggered by commercial success in a royalty-back model. Eligible project proposals must pair one U.S. entity and one Israeli entity — either two companies, or a company and a university or research institution. Technology focus areas include unmanned aerial systems for first responders, border protection and maritime security (biometrics, screening, robotics), critical infrastructure and soft target protection, safe and secure cities technologies, and advanced first responder tools such as digital forensics, command-and-control systems, video analytics, wearable sensors, standoff hazard detection, and personal protective equipment. TRL eligibility spans TRL 3–7, with emphasis on projects with a credible demonstration and commercialisation plan.

The BIRD Foundation board approves projects twice annually. As of mid-2026, the next BIRD HLS cycle dates had not been announced; applicants should monitor birdf.com and pre-engage with BIRD's regional U.S. representatives or the Israeli programme contact. The programme is well-suited to defence-adjacent technology companies developing solutions that address both U.S. and Israeli homeland security needs and that have a potential joint U.S.-Israel commercial revenue path.