Commercial Applications enabled by Space Environments (CASE)
ESA funds commercial R&D projects using space environments like microgravity and the ISS to develop innovative products and services for terrestrial markets, supporting sectors from pharmaceuticals to advanced materials.
Funder: European Space Agency
Due Dates: December 17, 2027 (Clarification/Extension Request Deadline) | December 31, 2027 (Final Submission Deadline)
Funding Amounts: Feasibility Studies: up to €500,000; Demonstration Projects: case-by-case; ESA co-funding up to 80% for SMEs, up to 100% for research institutions (max. 30% of activity cost for institutions), typically 50% for industry.
Summary: Supports companies and consortia developing innovative commercial services and products leveraging space environments such as microgravity and LEO infrastructure.
Key Information: Applicants must be based in ESA member states; National Delegation authorisation required before full proposal.
Description
This opportunity from the European Space Agency (ESA) aims to enable the development of commercial services and products that exploit unique aspects of space environments—such as microgravity, radiation, and extreme temperatures—to unlock new business opportunities for terrestrial markets. The call supports both Feasibility Studies (to assess and mature business cases) and Demonstration Projects (to pilot and validate services with real customers).
Eligible projects should leverage existing space infrastructure, including facilities aboard the International Space Station (ISS), and may target a wide range of sectors, from energy and pharmaceuticals to food production and advanced materials. ESA provides zero-equity funding, technical and commercial guidance, access to a broad partner network, and the credibility of the ESA brand.
