Kick-Start
ESA's Kick-Start program funds six-month feasibility studies to assess technical and commercial viability of new services using satellite data, navigation, or communications.
Funder: European Space Agency
Due Dates: February 27, 2026 | March 27, 2026 | May 29, 2026 | August 28, 2026 | October 30, 2026 (final closing)
Funding Amounts: Up to €75,000 per project (ESA covers 75% of eligible costs; max total project cost €100,000; 6-month duration)
Summary: Supports six-month feasibility studies to assess the technical and commercial viability of services using space assets (e.g., satellite data, navigation, communications).
Key Information: Applicants must be based in eligible ESA Member States; proposals are evaluated in batches on posted deadlines.
Description
The Kick-Start program from the European Space Agency (ESA) funds short, six-month feasibility studies to help organizations assess whether a new service concept using space assets—such as satellite communications, Earth observation data, or satellite navigation—is technically feasible and commercially viable. The program is designed to help businesses and research teams move from initial idea to a clear plan for service development, including technical architecture design, customer engagement, business planning, and outlining next steps for further development.
Kick-Start is intended as an entry point for new teams and organizations interested in leveraging space capabilities for commercial or societal benefit. Successful feasibility studies may be eligible for further support through ESA’s Demonstration Project funding.
