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The UK Space Agency, under the national space technology programme, invites applications for its grants for exploratory ideas. These aim to develop the capability of the UK space sector by providing seed funding for early-stage innovative ideas. Project proposals are sought for space technology research and development projects in areas including early technology readiness level innovation, technology proof of concept, small technology developments, establishing new industrial research collaborations, market studies, or studies into spin in or out of technologies for space. Acceptable activities also include:

•new technology concepts;

•knowledge transfer;

•skills development;

•refining an idea.

Project proposals must show how the grant will make a difference to UK space technology capability, in addition to its value to the bidder.

UK HEIs, other research organisations, SMEs and industry organisations may apply. Organisations new to space technology are particularly encouraged to participate. Industry-industry and industry-academia collaborations are also encouraged, and there is no restriction on which type of organisation can lead.

Grants are worth up to £10,000 each for up to three months.