Applications are open, until May 3, for ESA BIC Tagus, a program integrated into the European network of incubation centers of the European Space Agency (ESA), aimed at startups developing innovative solutions for space or using space technologies or data.

The ESA BIC Tagus program aims to support entrepreneurs in transforming ideas into sustainable businesses, promoting the transfer of space technology to applications in the terrestrial market.

ESA BIC Tagus is coordinated by Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, through Técnico Venture Lab. Aimed at early-stage projects or startups, the program offers a comprehensive set of support measures to accelerate development and market entry, including:

• Up to 2 years of incubation: access to a structured program with specialized mentoring, 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, fostering opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Técnico is looking for the next generation of Portuguese startups that combine space technology with global challenges.

Eligible projects include those that use satellite data, space engineering expertise, downstream applications, and space technology projects with market potential and growth ambition.

Startups less than four years old (or projects in the process of being established), based in Portugal, that develop products or services based on space technology or data and demonstrate commercial potential are eligible to apply.

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

More information.