This Open Call for Proposals is open to applications from companies or organisations residing in Member States subscribing to BASS, and in Cooperating or Associate Members States having declared their participation: this includes the UK.

Proof-of-concept studies and pilot projects are open to companies of any size, universities, research institutes and public sector entities.

The UK Space Agency will cover a maximum of 50% of costs for any applicant. (Some other ESA member states may cover as much as 100% for universities, but the UK maximum is 50%.)

These studies aim to reduce risks and validate the market opportunity by designing the service concept, engaging users, and developing a Minimum Viable Product (MVP).

Proof-of-concept studies will start with:

• Identification of a significant potential opportunity for a space-based product or service
• Preliminary customer/user interest
• Initial positive considerations on technical feasibility

The expected outcomes should be:

• confirmation that the proposed solution is technically feasible and economically viable
• key technical and business assumptions validated through the development of an MVP (Minimum Viable Product), and supported by strong customer interest and early commercial traction

These projects focus on integrating, developing and testing the service or application with customers in the primary target market. The pilot demonstrates the solution in a real operational setting, confirming its value-propositions.

Pilot projects will start with:

• confirmed technical feasibility and economic viability with demonstrated customer interest
• established partnerships for commercialisation
• credible commercialisation strategy backed by a solid financial plan

The expected outcomes should be:

• a fully operational service supported by key customers
• achieving initial sales
• demonstrating a clear pathway to commercialisation
• demonstrating potential for scalability
• proven potential to generate socio-economic impact at scale

Proof-of-Concept Studies can have an activity cost of up to €600,000 (limited to eligible cost).

Pilot Projects will be assessed case-by-case (limited to eligible cost).

In both cases, the UK Space Agency will cover a maximum of 50% of eligible costs.

To start your application, register your organisation on ESA’s esa-star system, which is where you will submit your Full Proposal. Please familiarise yourself with the complete registration process guide. Once you are registered, you can login to esa-star publication to download the official tender documentation.

Sign up to Open Space Innovation Platform (OSIP), which is where you will find all the information and templates you need to prepare and submit the first steps of your application.

You are advised to inform your National Delegation(s) of your intention to submit a proposal as soon as possible, as you will need to have their written authorisation for ESA funding to proceed at the Full Proposal stage.

To help you with the application process, ESA have a network of Ambassadors available to provide you with high-quality business consultancy support.

You can also contact Innovate UK Business Connect’s Space team.