The space economy is no longer the sole domain of large agencies and aerospace giants. Today, local innovation ecosystems – whether they’re clusters, startup hubs, networks, or regional development agencies – have a unique opportunity to become active players in space-enabled innovation. To support this transition, the FIERCE project is launching its Ecosystem Building Programme – an initiative designed to help innovation intermediaries develop and implement tailored space-focused programmes for their local communities.

Why Space? Why Now?

From satellite-based Earth observation to navigation services and climate monitoring, space technologies are transforming industries across the board, including agriculture, energy, transportation, and urban planning. These applications are especially powerful in supporting Europe’s twin green and digital transitions. Yet despite the potential, many innovation ecosystems lack the tools, experience, or knowledge to harness these opportunities.

That’s where FIERCE comes in.

Our goal is to enable innovation intermediaries,  organizations supporting SMEs and startups – such as incubators, accelerators, clusters, and agencies – to design and pilot their own space initiatives. Whether you’re helping deep tech startups explore commercialization or supporting SMEs looking for sustainable solutions, this programme will empower you to leverage space for real impact.

What Is the Ecosystem Building Programme?

The FIERCE Ecosystem Building Programme is a hands-on capacity-building and co-creation initiative aimed at helping innovation intermediaries:

• Design a space-themed initiative that fits their ecosystem (e.g., Space Talks, Hackathons, Incubator Tracks, Sprints)

• Build internal capacity to support startups entering or growing in the space economy

• Implement and pilot these initiatives with expert guidance from the FIERCE consortium

This is not a one-size-fits-all programme. Your initiative will be shaped based on your region’s maturity, goals, and startup landscape.

How It Works?

The programme follows a clear and collaborative journey:

1. Info Session – September 9 at 15:00 CET
   Get an overview of the programme, meet the team, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

2. Kick-off Meeting
   Share your ecosystem’s needs, challenges, and ambitions with our experts.

3. Initiative Design
   Co-design a space initiative format that best serves your startups—customized to your level of experience in the space sector.

4. Capacity Building & Co-Development
   Access knowledge, tools, and support to develop the initiative in partnership with FIERCE.

5. Pilot the Initiative
   Launch your initiative in your local ecosystem and begin supporting your startups with space-powered innovation.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome applications from innovation intermediaries across Europe, including:

• Regional development agencies

• Startup incubators and accelerators

• Tech parks and innovation hubs

• Research and industry clusters

• Entrepreneurial networks and support organizations

You don’t need to be a space expert—just have a commitment to innovation ecosystem and an interest in expanding your impact through space-enabled services.

Save the Date: Info Session on September 9

Want to learn more? Your journey starts at our upcoming Info Session.

📅 Date: September 9
🕒 Time: 15:00 CEST
📍 Location: Online

During the session, we’ll introduce the programme, share success stories, and explain how your organization can participate. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the FIERCE team and ask questions.

👉 Register now – limited spots available!

Help Shape the Future of Space Innovation

The space economy is expanding rapidly – and your organization can help shape its future by enabling the next generation of space-enabled startups.

By joining the FIERCE Ecosystem Building Programme, you will:

✅ Increase your ecosystem’s exposure to space innovation
✅ Co-create impactful initiatives with expert support
✅ Boost regional innovation capacity aligned with EU green and digital goals

Let’s build the future of space-enabled entrepreneurship – together.

📨 Interested or have questions?
Reach out via info@project-fierce.eu – We’re happy to share more details or set up a short 1-to-1 call to explore how the programme could support your organisation.