The European Space Agency (ESA) is funding many different types of EO projects aiming at boosting its Member States capabilities. One of the flagship programmes is the FutureEO programme. It supports early-stage research, novel satellite missions, and innovative EO applications. It also acts as a launchpad for pioneering ideas, offering funding that helps projects gain visibility, develop intellectual property, and attract follow-on investment.

Prerequisites:

• Identify key stakeholders such as the government, industry, and academia, and build relationships with them.
• Encourage involvement in the consortium.

Cost: N/A

Timeframe: N/A

Pros:

• Mitigating Cost - Reduces individual financial burdens and make large-scale projects more feasible.
• Improved Access - Provides access to new markets and opportunities through shared networks and partnerships.

Considerations:

• Articulation - Managing and coordinating multiple stakeholders with different objectives and priorities can be challenging and may require robust governance/operating structures.
• Timeline and Distant ROI - EO R&D projects often require extended timelines, which can be challenging for organisations seeking quick returns on investment.