General Atomics Aeronautical - MQ-9B SkyGuardian
BLUE MAGIC NETHERLANDS

Dual-Use Innovation and Investment Conference
18 November 2025

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), in collaboration with the Dutch Ministry of Defence and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, is excited to host the second Blue Magic Netherlands on 18 November 2025. The event will take place at the iconic MELT at Avular building, a world-class venue for technology interchange near Brainport Eindhoven, the center of the Dutch high-technology manufacturing industry.

Blue Magic Netherlands aims to foster technology ideation and implementation within the Dutch industrial ecosystem. We invite innovative Dutch technology and aerospace companies, big and small, to apply for a chance to pitch transformative next-gen solutions that could advance the course of commercial and defence technologies. This one-of-a-kind event brings together leaders in advanced technology, aerospace, business, and government in a single Dutch forum to explore emerging technologies to accelerate real-world solutions that address the world’s most pressing defence and security challenges.

Along with our partners Brainport Development Eindhoven, Lockheed Martin Ventures, and Brabant Development Agency, we will accept innovative proposals on a broad range of technologies. Participating in this transformational event presents an ideal opportunity to connect with funding and collaborate with industry leaders. Companies and individuals wishing to only join the audience and network are welcome to register as well.

Technology Focus Areas

  • Intelligent Systems – Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning and Autonomy
  • Smart Materials – Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Counter-UAS

This year, we are also hosting several virtual workshops covering a variety of topics relevant to defence technology start-ups. These workshops will be available for the entire Dutch innovation ecosystem to attend regardless of participation in the event.

Innovate. Collaborate. Transform.
BLUE MAGIC NETHERLANDS

Submit a Proposal   Attendee Registration

GA-ASI is a proud supporter of the Dutch Ministry of Defence and aerospace industry. GA-ASI is working closely with the Royal Netherlands Air Force to deliver eight MQ-9 remotely piloted aircraft and enhanced capabilities such as maritime surveillance, communications, extended range fuel tanks, electronic support measures, and more.

PITCH PROPOSAL DETAILS

Pitch proposals should be submitted in PDF format by the 10 October 2025 submission deadline. To maximize the chances of being selected, proposals should include the following:

  • List of team members
  • Description of the challenge and why it is relevant
  • Overview of the solution and differentiators from current solutions
  • Long-term roadmap to solving the challenge
  • Detailed funding and support analysis for development and implementation

Companies selected to present pitches at Blue Magic Netherlands will be notified on Monday, 3 November 2025.


INDUSTRY & TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOPS

This year, we are introducing a series of virtual workshops covering a variety of topics relevant to defence technology start-ups. They are open to the entire Dutch innovation ecosystem regardless of attendance at the BMNL 2025 event. Each session is held virtually over Teams. Please stay tuned for workshop dates and registration links. Planned workshops include topics such as:
Legal

  • Legal Entities
  • Introduction to Licensing Basics
  • Staffing Practices for Rapidly Growing Businesses
  • Intellectual Property
  • Non-Disclosure Agreements

Business

  • Introduction to Business Basics
  • Partnering with Prime Contractors
  • Attracting Capital Investment

General

  • Cybersecurity Considerations for Defence Start-Ups
  • Pitching for Success

IMPORTANT DATES & DEADLINES

Blue Magic Netherlands event: Tuesday, 18 November 2025
Event registration deadline: Monday, 10 November 2025
Pitch proposal deadline: Friday, 10 October 2025
Companies notified of selection or decline: Monday, 3 November 2025
Final pitch presentations due: Monday, 10 November 2025

Information Sessions
Online information sessions will provide details on the submission process, requirements and deadlines, as well as answer any questions about the event. Attendance is optional but strongly recommended for those submitting proposals. Each information session is held virtually over Teams.

Workshop: Pitching for Success
This online workshop will cover a range of topics on best practices for delivering a compelling pitch and maximizing ways to appeal to investors. Attendance is optional but strongly recommended for those submitting proposals. The workshop is held virtually over Teams.

  • Tuesday, 04 November 2025
For questions regarding the event or pitch proposal submissions, please send an email to: BlueMagic@ga-asi.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

This event serves as an opportunity for Dutch technology and aerospace companies, big and small, to pitch transformative solutions that could advance the course of commercial and defence technologies. It’s a one-of-a-kind event that brings together leaders in advanced technology, aerospace, business, and government in a single Dutch forum to explore real-world solutions to the world’s most pressing defence and security challenges. Participating presents an opportunity to connect with potential funding and collaborate with industry leaders.
Register to attend BMNL 2025 using the following link: Event Registration Form. Be sure to double-check email spelling to ensure proper delivery of the registration confirmation.
Yes. Companies and individuals wishing to only join the audience and network with attendees are welcome to register for general admission.
Use the following link to submit a pitch proposal: Pitch Proposal Submission Form
Intelligent systems, smart materials, sensors, space, and counter-UAS are just a few of the wide range of technology topics for consideration. We welcome pitch proposals on any transformative solution that could advance the course of commercial and defence technologies.
Although GA-ASI has held previous Blue Magic events in other regions of Europe, BMNL 2025 is limited to companies within the Dutch innovation ecosystem registered in the Netherlands. Please check our website and follow us on social media for updates on future events.
Registration confirmation is sent to the email provided during registration. Please double-check email spelling to ensure proper delivery of the registration confirmation and check junk/spam folders. If you did not receive a confirmation email, please contact BlueMagic@ga-asi.com.
Advance registration by the deadline is required. On-site registration will not be available, and only individuals with confirmed registrations can attend. Walk-ins will not be permitted entry into the event.
GA-ASI is hosting virtual Information Sessions and a Pitch Workshop to answer any questions about the submission process and the event. Attendance is optional but strongly recommended for those submitting proposals.
The deadline to submit a proposal for a chance to present a pitch at Blue Magic Netherlands is Friday, 10 October 2025.
Companies selected to present pitches at Blue Magic Netherlands will be notified on Monday, 3 November 2025.
GA-ASI is hosting two virtual Information Sessions and a Pitch Workshop to address any questions about the submission process and event. Attendance is optional but strongly recommended for those submitting pitch proposals. For questions about the event or proposal submissions, please send an email to: BlueMagic@ga-asi.com.
Attendance is optional but strongly recommended for those submitting proposals.
Use the following link to submit final pitch presentations: Pitch Proposal Submission Form

Approximately 200 people attended the 2024 event, which provided Dutch businesses with an opportunity to pitch their innovative technologies to GA-ASI and other companies interested in possible collaborations. Approximately 50 companies applied to pitch, and 15 were selected to present their capabilities to GA-ASI, other potential customers, partners, and investors.

Following compelling pitches at BMNL 2024 and detailed business & technology discussions, the following Dutch innovators were selected by GA-ASI for investments: Emergent Swarm Solutions, Saluqi Motors, and Arceon B.V.

Professional photographers will be on-site to document BMNL 2025, and photos will be made available after the event. Photography and video captured by attendees are not permitted during pitch presentations.

HOSTED BYGeneral Atomics Aeronautical

In partnership with: