The UK Space Agency has unveiled the second call for the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP), a strategic initiative designed to propel the nation’s space industry to new heights. This article delves into the intricacies of NSIP Call 2, exploring its objectives, funding opportunities, thematic focus, eligibility criteria, application process, and the broader implications for the UK’s space ambitions.

Introduction to the National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP)

Launched as a pivotal component of the UK’s National Space Strategy, the NSIP aims to position the country as one of the world’s most innovative and attractive space economies. By providing co-funded grants, the programme seeks to de-risk high-reward projects, facilitating the development of cutting-edge space technologies, applications, and services. The overarching goal is to catalyse investment, drive innovation, and capture significant market share in the rapidly evolving global space industry.

Objectives and Strategic Goals of NSIP Call 2

NSIP Call 2 has been developed to expand the UK’s portfolio of space innovations, aligning with the National Space Strategy’s vision. The primary objectives include:

  • Catalysing Investment: The programme aims to secure contract revenue and capital into the UK space sector, targeting an impressive return of 5-8 times the value of NSIP investment by 2030.
  • Driving Innovation: By supporting projects that achieve an average improvement in Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of two or more, NSIP seeks to elevate the technological maturity of supported initiatives over their lifespan.
  • Capturing Market Share: The focus is on generating new products and services that can be sold into the fastest-growing and highest-potential space markets by 2030, thereby enhancing the UK’s competitive edge globally.

Funding Opportunities and Project Strands

Under NSIP Call 2, the UK Space Agency has earmarked at least £17 million for co-funded grants, structured into two distinct strands:

  1. Kick Starter Projects: Aimed at early-stage innovations with TRL 1-4, these projects emphasise highly disruptive or novel proposals. Applicants can request grant funding between £150,000 and £1,000,000, with a maximum project duration of 16 months.
  2. Major Projects: Focused on the commercialization and growth of particularly lucrative ideas, these projects target higher TRL levels, aiming to bring mature technologies closer to market readiness.

The allocation of funds is designed to provide an end-to-end support package, assisting projects across the notorious “valley of death” in innovation, facilitating their journey from conceptualization to commercial success.

Thematic Focus: Space Data for Earth Applications

While NSIP Call 2 maintains an open approach to funding, encouraging proposals across a broad spectrum of space technologies, there is a strategic emphasis on the theme of “Space Data for Earth Applications.” Up to 30% of the Call 2 budget is dedicated to projects that seek to deliver capabilities and applications utilising satellite data to benefit UK citizens and stimulate economic growth. This thematic focus underscores the UK’s commitment to harnessing space technology to address terrestrial challenges, enhancing sectors such as environmental monitoring, agriculture, urban planning, and disaster response.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

NSIP Call 2 is open to a diverse range of UK-based entities, including companies, universities, and research organizations. To manage the anticipated high level of interest and ensure a streamlined selection process, the UK Space Agency has implemented a two-stage application procedure:

  1. Expression of Interest: Prospective applicants are required to complete an Expression of Interest form by 23rd April 2025.
  2. Outline Proposal Submission: Following the Expression of Interest, applicants must submit their Outline Proposal Application forms by 11:59 pm on 8th May 2025 to [email protected].

Successful candidates from the Outline Proposal stage will be invited to submit Full Proposals, with approximately 50 applicants expected to proceed to this phase. Detailed guidance on the application process and eligibility requirements is available in the Announcement of Opportunity.

Assessment Criteria and Selection Process

Applications will undergo a rigorous assessment process, evaluating factors such as:

  • Innovation and Technical Merit: The novelty and technical feasibility of the proposed project.
  • Commercial Potential: The project’s viability in terms of market demand and potential for revenue generation.
  • Alignment with Strategic Goals: How well the project aligns with NSIP’s objectives and the broader National Space Strategy.
  • Project Management and Deliverability: The applicant’s capability to manage and deliver the project within the stipulated timeframe and budget.

The selection process is designed to identify projects that not only exhibit technical excellence but also demonstrate a clear pathway to commercialisation and market impact.

Broader Implications for the UK’s Space Sector

The launch of NSIP Call 2 signifies a robust commitment by the UK government to bolster its space sector, fostering an environment conducive to innovation and commercial success. By strategically investing in high-potential projects and emphasising themes like Space Data for Earth Applications, the UK positions itself to address both national and global challenges through space technology.

Moreover, the programme’s focus on catalysing investment and capturing market share reflects an understanding of the economic potential inherent in the space industry. By supporting projects that can attract significant private investment and generate new products and services, NSIP contributes to the creation of high-skilled jobs, stimulates economic growth, and enhances the UK’s standing in the international space community.

Other posts you might like