Grant News
The UK Space Agency has opened the third funding round of the National Space Innovation Programme. Up to £20 million is available for UK-based space research and development projects.
The UK Space Agency is part of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. It supports the UK’s civil space sector and helps deliver the country’s national space ambitions.
The programme is designed to reduce the financial and technical risks associated with ambitious space technologies. It also aims to help projects move closer to practical use and support ideas with strong commercial or scientific potential.
Funding is available through two strands:
- Kick Starter grants: £150,000 to £1 million for disruptive projects at an early stage of development.
- Major Projects grants: £150,000 to £2 million for more developed projects that are closer to commercial use.
UK-based businesses, universities and research organisations are eligible to apply. Projects must be related to space, led from the UK and provide a clear benefit to the country.
Priority areas include:
- Space Domain Awareness;
- In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing;
- Assured Access to Space; and
- satellite communications technology.
Other key details include:
- projects may last for up to 30 months;
- up to 40% of the available funding may be allocated to Space Domain Awareness and In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing;
- businesses may lead one application under each funding strand; and
- universities and research organisations may submit up to three applications under each strand.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit an expression of interest by 7 August 2026.
Outline proposals must be submitted by 11:59 pm on 21 August 2026. Full proposals are due by 12 November 2026. Successful projects are expected to begin on or after 1 April 2027.
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