Specific support for research works and innovation for defense: Maturation and Development (ASTRID-Maturation)

The French National Research Agency (ANR), in partnership with the French Defense Innovation Agency (AID) (attached to the defense procurement agency - DGA), has launched the 2021 ASTRID programme "Specific support for defence research works and innovation : Maturation and Development”. The programme is entirely funded by the AID and is implemented by ANR.

ASTRID Maturation is a dedicated programme supporting the development of scientific work carried out in the framework of ASTRID, theses funded by DGA/AID and research projects by engineering schools under DGA/AID supervision. This programme is dual use: applications must serve both civilian and military purposes.

The ASTRID-Maturation programme aims to:

• anticipate technology demonstrations and pre-industrial work following up on dual-use scientific innovation,
• boost result’s attractiveness with regard to industry and investors.

The programme, at the borderline between upstream research and technological research, is complementary to RAPID and DGA upstream studies programmes (as far as military applications are concerned) and other civilian supporting programmes.

ASTRID Maturation is open to all types of enterprises. However, in order to promote innovation in SMEs and ITEs, the participation of at least one company in these categories is required per project.

The grant awarded to the projects, whose duration must be between 2 and 3 years, is capped at € 500 k.