Call for proposals

The Centre for Defence Enterprise (CDE) is open to any idea that can contribute to UK defence - on any subject and at any time.

Periodically we call for proposals on special topics. These use the same CDE submission process but are different in three ways:

  1. they address a specific problem or need;
  2. they have ring-fenced funding;
  3. there is a cut-off date after which the proposals are assessed against each other.

The programmes will be short and sharp. They will:

  • identify solutions with the potential to be rapidly deployed to the front line; or
  • provide proof of concept that may lead to a more extensive research programme

If we do not have enough innovative proposals submitted by the assessment date, we will reissue the challenges with a later assessment date.

For more information see the Proposal Guidelines.

Competition of Ideas

You may recognise similarities with our past Competition of Ideas initiative. The CDE process is an expanded development of the Competition of Ideas concept where proposals and ideas are submitted to the CDE, using the online portal.

Current call for proposals

For Current Calls please see the Events and Calls section of the website.

Small Business Research initiative

These call for proposals form a part of the pilot of the reformed Small Business Research initiative (SBRI) - a cross-Government programme to stimulate innovation through the procurement of technology.

For more details on SBRI see the Technology Strategy Board website.