BLAST: The Catalyst for the Aerospace and Defense Deeptech Ecosystem Launches its 4th Edition under a New Format 

Since its inception in 2021, BLAST has been much more than an acceleration program—it has become a true cornerstone of the French aerospace and defense deeptech ecosystem. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, BLAST connects startups with key players across the entire value chain. This unique positioning enables the program to nurture cutting-edge solutions that respond to the evolving challenges of the sector. In all, more than 30 projects have been supported, €80 million raised and 200 jobs created. 

Now entering its fourth edition, BLAST continues to advance its mission through a strengthened partnership with the X-Novation Center, a wordly recognized center of excellence in many fields, including research and business in innovation, and the continuous support and sponsoring from ONERA, the French Aerospace Lab, Connect by CNES, Avio France and Eutelsat, Innovation Defense Agency and the Île-de-France Region, offering an unparalleled platform for cutting-edge ventures eager to disrupt, excel, and shape the future of aerospace and defense. With the call for applications now open until May 21st, this new chapter of BLAST promises to gather top industry leaders and successful entrepreneurs in A&D to reinforce startup launch success, fueling transformative ideas and elevating the next generation of industry leaders. 

Initially focused on intensity (3 months), BLAST is now transitioning into a longer-term program (18 months) aimed at enabling startups to qualify market access more effectively, reach the maturity needed to make a lasting impact, and build strong collaborations within the French ASD ecosystem. This new ambition brings together the most relevant partners in the Aerospace, Space, and Defense (ASD) sectors, ensuring unmatched quality support.  

Central to BLAST’s impact are the invaluable insights shared by top management and leaders from corporate, industrial and institutionnals who have participated in previous editions. During BLAST #3, figures such as Paul-François Fournier (Innovation Director, BPI France), Téma Benhalima-Bouville (Managing Director Global Incubation, Engie), Philippe Keryer (Senior Executive Vice President Strategy, Research and Technology, Thalès), Marc Darmon (Senior Vice President Europe & International Organisations, Thales), Denis Gardin (Director of Innovation and Future Technologies, MBDA), Patrick Aufort (Director, Agence de l’Innovation de défense), Jean-Marc Gasparini (Director, Military and Space Programs, Dassault Aviation), Nicolas Chamussy (General Manager, KNDS), Patrick Daher (Chairman of the Board of Directors, DAHER), and Nicolas Orance (Senior Executive VP Aeronautics Defense Industry, Hutchinson) came to share their advice to startups during inspiring discussions with François Chopard, Starburst Founder & CEO. An opportunity to bring together two visions, one more corporate-oriented and the other more entrepreneurial.  

In connecting early-stage deeptech innovators with established aerospace and defense champions and specialised investors, BLAST truly acts as a booster for growth. It not only provides startups with access to exclusive mentorship and resources but also harnesses cross-sector expertise to drive both technological progress and market success. Learn more. 

If you’re interested, apply before May 21!