GSIS Accelerator – powered by Speer Group launches with up to EUR 5 million
Europe’s strategic answer to innovation gaps in security
With the GSIS Accelerator – powered by Speer Group, the Global Security and Innovation Summit (GSIS) is launching a new initiative designed to address Europe’s strategic security needs. The programme is looking for start-ups with high-impact technologies in the fields of security, defence, and resilience.
The ten most promising applicants will be invited to present their ideas on 22 October 2025 at GSIS in Hamburg before an international audience of top-tier decision-makers, including industry experts, investors, policymakers, and strategic institutions.
The winners may receive up to EUR 5 million in equity investment made available by our exclusive venture partner Speer Group. The investment is subject to internal investment criteria, a successful due diligence process, and standard contractual negotiations.
The GSIS Accelerator builds bridges and fosters communication and collaboration between ventures, the industry, policymakers, and institutions in the field of Security and Defence in Europe with the clear objective: To close Europe’s security innovation gaps. In addition to increased visibility, finalists benefit from access to a broad as well as deep international network, and strategic support to navigate the market effectively.
“Technology and Innovation are crucial factors for European security. The Accelerator combines start-up intelligence with strategic relevance – exactly what Europe needs now.”
Dr Bastian Giegerich
Director-General of IISS
“With GSIS and the Accelerator, we are creating a unique meeting point for innovation, responsibility, and execution – right in the heart of Europe. Hamburg offers the ideal stage for it.”
Heiko M. Stutzinger
CEO of Hamburg Messe and Congress GmbH
“We don’t invest in trends, we invest in solutions that strengthen Europe’s security and resilience. Alongside capital, we provide access to strategic networks and experts who help companies scale and secure Europe’s capacity to act.”
Max Buechner
CEO of Speer Group
“Europe cannot afford to fall behind in the strategic race for technology. The GSIS Accelerator creates a platform where security-relevant innovations become visible, investable, and politically connected.”
Dimitrios Argirakos
Executive Chair of GSIS
Ready to shape Europe’s future?
Submit your pitch deck and executive summary (PDF, max. 5 pages) to accelerator(at)gsis-hamburg(dot)com by 10 October 2025.
Selected teams will be notified by early November.
Who can apply?
We welcome European early-stage and growth-stage start-ups with solutions in:
- Defence & dual-use technologies
- Cybersecurity & digital sovereignty
- Infrastructure & societal resilience
- AI, quantum, space, and other critical technologies
What we are looking for:
Finalists will be selected by a high-level jury of experts from industry, government, and the security community – based on business model, scalability, and team strength..