DASA / UKDI Open Call for Innovation

DASA / UKDI Open Call for Innovation (paused

Supports disruptive defence and security innovation through the UKDI route during transition toward renewed innovation operations.

The Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), now operating as part of UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) since February 2026, runs the Open Call for Innovation as a standing, topic-agnostic competition accepting proposals across any defence or security subject. The programme has historically run multiple cycles per year, issuing funded contracts rather than grants, with Rapid Impact bids typically receiving between £100,000 and £350,000 each. CY2025 Cycle 4, the most recent completed cycle, opened 23 September 2025 and closed at noon on 13 January 2026; its scope encompassed 'Defence Rapid Impact' proposals alongside broader defence and security landscapes. Past Innovation Focus Areas from earlier cycles have spanned topics including AI for defence, directed energy weapons, advanced materials, quantum navigation, and cyber defence.

Eligibility for the Open Call is broad: companies, sole traders, universities, research organisations, and non-profits based in the UK or overseas may submit proposals. There is no mandated TRL floor or ceiling; the call explicitly welcomes concepts, products, and services at various levels of maturity. DASA/UKDI awards funded contracts, not grants, meaning the relationship is procured on commercial terms rather than subsidy. Award sizes vary by proposal; historical Rapid Impact contracts fell predominantly in the £100,000–£350,000 range, with no published upper limit for other proposal types. The submission portal has historically been the DASA Online Submission Service, which will transition to the UKDI Online Submission Service ahead of reopening.

The programme is currently paused pending UKDI reaching Full Operating Capability, expected in July 2026. When the new cycle opens, applicants should register on the UKDI mailing list at cloud.dasa.mod.gov.uk/1383 to receive notification. Winning proposals typically must demonstrate genuine innovation that moves beyond existing capabilities, with clear defence or security applicability. Proposals are reviewed by DASA/UKDI technical and commercial staff, and successful applicants proceed to a funded contract for the agreed scope of work.