European Space Agency logo
European Space Agency

Industry 4.0 and High Value Manufacturing Kick-Start Activities

Pays up to EUR60K, no equity taken, for space-enabled smart-factory ideas.

ClosedEuropean Space AgencyGermanyIrelandNorwayUnited Kingdom

Alongside the zero-equity cash award, winning teams get technical and commercial guidance, access to ESA's ambassador network and business partners, and the brand credibility that comes with an ESA-backed award -- benefits meant to help a team beyond the money itself. What counts as a qualifying idea spans several different space assets: satellite navigation applications include tracking physical

ESA wants space-enabled services for the 'connected factory' of high-value manufacturing -- remote manufacturing, business-process optimisation, transport logistics, remote operations and maintenance, servitisation, and environmental sustainability. Proposals should show a motivated team, an attractive market opportunity, and a technically feasible, commercially viable service enabled by satellite navigation, communications, Earth observation, or human-spaceflight technology.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.No fixed schedule
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.-
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.-
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.-

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