This is one of three sub-calls under the Arctic Region Call for Proposals, targeted at supporting European space-enabled solutions to the many challenges arising in this area. These include pressing and immediate security challenge is the rapid militarisation and intensifying geopolitical competition triggered by climate change and the opening of new maritime routes. Competition for strategic advantage and access to the Arctic’s vast, untapped natural resources is heightening the risk of territorial disputes and unlawful activities.
Against this backdrop, this sub-call is focusing on safety, navigation and operations. Applications are invited on space-enabled solutions targeting safe maritime navigation and operations in the Arctic where the melting ice is not only resulting in increased traffic but also posing significant hazards to vessels.
Join the free webinar on 9 September at 11:00 CEST (10am UK time) to learn more on this topic and about BASS funding calls. The webinar will run for approximately one hour. This is also your unique opportunity to ask the BASS team questions before submitting your application.
-
This sub‑call is open to:
- Companies (start‑ups, SMEs, large companies)
- Consortia involving industrial and non‑industrial partners
- Cross‑sectoral teams combining space and non‑space actors
Applicants should demonstrate a clear user need, with users such as public authorities, environmental agencies, fisheries and aquaculture operators, port and coastal authorities, or environmental service providers.
-
Areas of particular interest for space-enabled solutions have been defined in consultation with stakeholders of the Arctic Region.
As such, we are welcoming applications addressing challenges related to:
- ice monitoring
- route optimisation
- search and rescue
- situational awareness
- overall operational safety in the Arctic region
-
Satellite Earth Observation (SatEO) supports ice monitoring to support safe navigation, as well as detection of anomalies around critical infrastructure—unauthorised construction, saboteurs, or otherwise. InSAR has proven valuable in monitoring for land subsidence in various environments, pertinent in the Arctic due to threats from permafrost instability.
Satellite Communications (Satcom) provides resilient communications for search-and-rescue, and coastguard and defensive training operations. It could be used to enable and increase resilience of command and control of autonomous and remotely piloted systems.
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) plays a critical role in the navigation of autonomous and traditional marine, air and land vehicles, indispensable for transportation, security, and surveillance in the region. By measuring fine displacements over time, GNSS receivers support with integrity monitoring of physical infrastructure at risk of instability.
While existing space assets can provide immediate solutions, upcoming space and non-space capabilities are likely to create new opportunities for the Arctic.
-
Funding is provided under ESA Business Applications non‑competitive conditions, with co‑funding rates depending on participant profile and Member State contribution.
- zero-equity funding (50-80% depending on SME Status and Member State Approval)
- technical and commercial guidance
- access to our network and partners
- ESA brand credibility
This call offers funding for Proof-of-concept and Pilot Projects.
Proof-of-concept projects have a maximum cost of €600,000. 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). For proof-of-concept, ESA will co-fund up to 80% of the cost for SMEs (up to 75% for larger businesses) and up to 100% for research organisations (must not exceed 30% of total cost).
For pilot projects, the maximum cost will be determined on a case-by-case basis. These should 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. ESA will fund up to 80% of the cost for SMEs (up to 50% for larger businesses) and up to 100% for research organisations (must not exceed 30% of total cost).
In both cases, the remainder of the cost must be industry co-funded.
-
Join the free webinar on 9 September at 11:00 CEST (10am UK time) to learn more on this topic and about BASS funding calls. The webinar will run for approximately one hour. This is also your unique opportunity to ask the BASS team questions before submitting your application.
If you would like help to find a collaboration partner, contact Innovate UK Business Connect’s Space team.