Denmark’s drone sector is poised for accelerated growth and enhanced impact on Ukraine’s defence efforts, thanks to a significant DKK 17 million investment from Denmark’s Business Promotion Board. Spearheaded by Odense Robotics in collaboration with CenSec, the funding will fuel a new accelerator aimed at bolstering innovation and collaboration within unmanned systems.
Danish drone and defence companies are already pivotal to Ukraine’s resilience. A new initiative is set to further strengthen their contribution, addressing the increasing demand for advanced drone solutions amid the ongoing conflict.
A new accelerator will help Danish startups and SMEs operating within unmanned systems to develop new products and solutions needed in Ukraine, and in relation to critical infrastructure and other emergency situations globally.
Companies will gain access to funding, expertise and testing facilities – and collaborate closely with the defense and security partners in Denmark and Ukraine.
“The accelerator is a powerful example of when innovation meets purpose. With this initiative, Denmark will not only strengthen its drone industry but also contribute to Ukraine’s resilience and the global development of innovative unmanned technologies,” says Søren Elmer Kristensen, CEO at Odense Robotics.
“Odense Robotics is proud to lead this project together with CenSec. Together, we will help Danish drone companies develop new solutions, tap into Denmark’s strong drone testing environment and collaborate with key defence stakeholders in Ukraine and Denmark. We hope to create lasting impact for drone companies in Denmark – and for the people of Ukraine.”
The accelerator will be lead by Odense Robotics in close collaboration with CenSec, Denmark’s national cluster for defence, space and security.
“CenSec is committed to fostering collaboration and innovation between Danish and Ukrainian companies in the defence and security sectors. This accelerator initiative is a testament to how partnerships can drive impactful solutions in critical situations. By combining Denmark’s robust capabilities in unmanned systems with Ukraine’s urgent needs, we aim to create not just technological advancements but also meaningful contributions to Ukraine’s resilience and security,” says Dustin Wilden, interim CEO at CenSec.
Strengthening drone startups and SMEs
The accelerator will leverage Denmark’s strong ecosystem for robotics, drones and unmanned systems. It will enable companies to tap into testing and development facilities on Funen and across the country.
Key features include:
- Technology and defence solutions: Developing dual-use technologies and defence solutions with partners in the defence and security sectors.
- Access to funding & resources: Participants will receive funding for access to test facilities, technological development and showcasing their solutions at international exhibitions and events
- Tailored support: Supporting businesses in developing new drone technologies, products and processes through customised accelerator tracks.
In parallel with the initiative, Danish companies will also have the opportunity to be matched with Ukrainian companies through networks in both countries and Ukraine’s defence industry hub.
Shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine
The initiative was announced on 9 December by the Ministry of Business, Industry and Financial Affairs.
“Denmark and Danish companies stand shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine. During my recent visit, I witnessed the profound impact of our support for Ukraine’s defence and investments in the country. With DKK 17 million for this new drone initiative, we aim to bolster collaboration between Danish and Ukrainian companies. Drones are playing an increasingly critical role in Ukraine’s fight for freedom. This funding will also help foster more Danish startups and SMEs in the drone industry, unlocking their potential for Ukraine’s benefit while supporting future growth and jobs,” says Morten Bødskov, Minister of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, in a press release from the Ministry of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs.
“Our primary task is to create value for Danish SMEs, and we see Ukrainian drone SMEs developing technology at an impressive pace. By investing in this initiative, we can deploy resources swiftly – essential in a war situation where threats evolve constantly. We aim to rapidly establish flexible and tailored partnerships between Danish drone companies and Ukraine’s leading drone businesses. This will drive innovation and deliver solutions that benefit both nations,” says Christian Motzfeldt, Chair of Denmark’s Business Promotion Board in a press release from the Ministry of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs.
For more information, contact Gert Taul Pedersen, Project Manager, Odense Robotics.