Técnico seeks the next generation of space startups

ESA BIC Tagus opens applications to support space technology startups

ESA BIC Tagus has opened applications to support startups in the space sector

Applications are open from April 15 to May 3 for ESA BIC Tagus, the incubation program of the European Space Agency (ESA), aimed at startups developing innovative solutions for the space sector or leveraging space technologies or data.

As part of ESA’s European network of Business Incubation Centres, ESA BIC Tagus aims to support entrepreneurs in transforming ideas into sustainable businesses, promoting the transfer of space technologies into terrestrial market applications.

ESA BIC Tagus is coordinated by Instituto Superior Técnico through Técnico Venture Lab.

Targeted at early-stage projects and startups, the program offers a comprehensive support package to accelerate development and market entry, including:

• Up to 2 years of incubation: access to a structured program with specialized mentorship, business development support, and technical and commercial guidance;
• Up to €60,000 in non-dilutive funding: financial support for product development, validation, and early market steps, without equity dilution;
• Access to an international network: connection to ESA and a European network of partners, including industry, research institutions, and investors, enabling collaboration and growth opportunities.

Técnico is looking for the next generation of Portuguese startups that combine space technology with global challenges. Eligible projects include those using satellite data, space engineering knowledge, downstream applications, or space technologies, with market potential and growth ambition.

Startups less than four years old (or projects in formation), based in Portugal, developing products or services based on space technologies or data, and demonstrating commercial potential are eligible to apply.

Throughout the program, selected startups will have the opportunity to develop and validate their solutions, accelerate market entry, and integrate into a highly specialized international ecosystem.

Applications are open and can be submitted until May 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM (Portugal time).

More information:
https://tecnicoventurelab.pt/esa-bic-tagus/

About ESA BIC Tagus

ESA BIC Tagus is part of the European Space Agency’s network of Business Incubation Centres, which supports startups in using space technologies and data to develop innovative solutions for terrestrial markets. In Portugal, the program is coordinated by Instituto Superior Técnico, in collaboration with partners from the innovation ecosystem, contributing to the strengthening of the national space sector and the promotion of technological entrepreneurship.

This program is supported by the European Space Agency, the Municipality of Oeiras, the Regional Government of the Azores, the Agency for Research and Innovation, and the Portuguese Space Agency.