UK-based organisations are eligible to apply.

Consortia are encouraged, including participation from non-UK organisations where supported by relevant national agencies or self-funded.

Research Institutions & Academia with no commercial interest in the product can apply as part of an industrially led consortium.

Projects supported under this call are expected to last up to 18 months, with indicative funding levels ranging from €300,000 to €4 million depending on the scope and maturity of the activity. ESA funding is provided on a co-funded basis, with higher levels (up to approximately 80%) available for SMEs and lower levels (down to approximately 50%) for non-SMEs depending on risk and maturity.

All funded projects are expected to be kicked off by no later than the end of December 2026.

The call is broad in scope and open across the Earth Observation value chain, including upstream (e.g. sensors and platforms), midstream (data processing), and downstream (applications and services).

InCubed is a co-funded Earth Observation programme designed to support the development and de-risking of innovative and commercially viable products and services, acting as a final step towards commercialisation rather than a research activity.

We are inviting interested UK organisations to submit proposals that demonstrate a clear route to market, credible commercial demand, and a strong plan for operational deployment. Preference will be given to proposals that show a clear pathway to commercialisation and evidence of customer engagement.

Applicants must demonstrate that there is a real market or user base and that someone is willing to pay for or use the product or service. The key requirement is showing a credible future beyond the project.

A webinar for prospective applicants was held on 16 June 2026: click here to watch the recording.

If you would like help to find a collaboration partner, contact Innovate UK Business Connect’s Space team.