From Idea to Production: What Support Is Available for Dual-Use Companies in Latvia?
The development of dual-use and defence technologies has become an important part of Latvia’s industrial policy, with support available to companies at different stages of growth – from the first idea and prototype to production, capacity expansion and large-scale investment projects.
During the current EU funding period 2021–2027, more than EUR 270 million has been allocated to the development of Latvia’s defence industry and dual-use technologies.
Available support includes funding for:
- Research and development – support for developing new products, prototypes and technological solutions;
- Innovation and productivity loans – financing for companies moving towards production or expanding existing production;
- Large investment projects – support for significant production expansion and industrial development;
- Guarantees – helping companies access bank financing when additional collateral is needed;
- Strengthening industrial capabilities for defence – support for new production facilities, infrastructure, technologies and equipment.
Companies can also benefit from Latvia’s “Green Corridor” for faster processing of permits and public services, as well as Ministry of Defence grants and opportunities for research and development cooperation.
Interest in these programmes is already high. According to current information from the Ministry of Economics, dozens of dual-use projects have received support, while LIAA is currently working with 39 potential investment projects worth approximately EUR 1.23 billion.
The article also explains what companies should be prepared for when applying for funding – including eligibility requirements, co-financing, project readiness and the need to demonstrate that the proposed product or technology meets defence or dual-use criteria.
Read the full article to explore the support instruments available for dual-use and defence companies in Latvia and what businesses should consider before applying: No idejas līdz ražošanai: kāds atbalsts pieejams duālā pielietojuma uzņēmumiem? – The Red Jackets.
Please note: the full article is available in Latvian.