As part of the UK Government’s ambitious 10-year vision for the space industry, more than £10bn of investment has been pledged to establish the UK as a global leader, with the UK Space Agency Announcing the launch of an £8m space portfolio. and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S) – managed by Future Planet Capital.
To accelerate the delivery of the National Space Strategy, this joint initiative is part of a strategic effort to direct investment into space and advance and strengthen the UK’s position in the space industry.
The Space Portfolio aims to address the critical funding gap faced by early-stage space companies.
Characterized by a lack of investment at risky pre-seed and seed stages, this gap poses a significant challenge for companies seeking to prove their technology and business model. Without the right support, many promising companies will stall, hindering innovation and economic growth.
Recognizing that it is essential to fill this funding gap, the UKI2S-led Space Portfolio, managed by Future Planet Capital, has launched a wide range of early stage funding in the space sector to foster innovation and drive the UK space industry forward. The company plans to invest strategically in stage opportunities.
The Space Portfolio will leverage UKI2S’ extensive expertise and track record in supporting, funding and mentoring early stage businesses and accessing a robust network of public institutions and research centres. Investment amounts typically range from £100,000 to £500,000, and this funding will play a vital role in enabling start-ups to scale and grow in the competitive space industry environment. .
Andrew Griffiths MP, Minister for Space at the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology, said:
“Today’s new Space Investment Fund aims to ensure we harness the potential of our homegrown talent and provide support to bring them into the global space market, benefiting our economy.”
Shruti Iyengar, investment lead for the space portfolio within UKI2S and investment manager at Future Planet Capital, commented: Space industry.
“With many years of nurturing startups from pre-seed to exit across many sectors, our team is excited to support UK space technology entrepreneurs to scale their ideas from early stages of company development to critical stages of growth. Delivering innovation that has global impact.”
Dr. Barbara Guinelli, Director of the Innovation Cluster and Harwell Campus, added:
“We are delighted to see this progress and look forward to further supporting founders and companies as they progress from early stage to scale-up. We will continue to strengthen and drive opportunity and innovation every step of the way.” “
The Portfolio will also proactively seek opportunities for collaboration to maximize its impact, working with the UK Space Agency’s existing programs and initiatives, as well as those of the European Space Agency, to help budding space companies. ensure comprehensive support for
Start-ups interested in funding from Space Portfolio are encouraged to visit www.uknovationscienceseedfund.com.
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