UPTEC startups among the 150 selected for NATO's innovation accelerator
Connect Robotics and Neuraspace are the only Portuguese companies chosen for the DIANA program, which supports the development of technologies for civil and military use
Out of thousands of applicants from the 32 NATO member countries, only 150 companies were selected to join the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA). Among them are two Portuguese startups connected to UPTEC, Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto: Connect Robotics, a UPTEC graduate company, and Neuraspace, currently incubated at UPTEC.
Participation in the DIANA programme provides selected companies with an initial investment of €100,000, access to a network of more than 180 NATO testing centres to validate technologies in real operational environments, and the opportunity to apply later for additional funding of up to €300,000. The accelerator focuses on the development of dual-use technologies with both civilian and defence applications.
Connect Robotics, in turn, aims to strengthen and adapt its autonomous logistics technology for defence scenarios. Its drone-based solutions enable precise deliveries in disaster zones or conflict areas, reducing risks to human lives. Building on technologies already validated in civilian markets, the company offers a drone-agnostic platform that transforms existing equipment into interoperable logistics systems through its drone management software.
