Introduction
The Business Applications UK Ambassadors are active in stimulating space related business development.
The UK already has a strong presence in the global space market, which is expected to continue its rapid growth, especially in downstream applications. With the support of both ESA and the UK Government, the Ambassador's aim is to raise awareness of the available funding instruments and to identify, promote and deliver a regular supply of commercially sustainable projects that use or are enabled by space. They conduct outreach activities and provide advice and guidance on business ideas for the programme across multiple sectors and regions in the UK, by developing relationships with new and existing users and stakeholders.
AMBASSADOR PROFILES
UK Ambassador: Kenneth Gordon
Ken Gordon has spent the last five years as the ESA Space Solutions Regional Ambassador for Scotland and Northern Ireland, helping organisations turn bold ideas into funded projects that harness space technology for life on Earth. His work bridges the gap between space and non-space sectors, guiding companies through the ESA Business Applications process and supporting them to bring innovative, space-enabled services to market.
Ken is passionate about connecting people and ideas. Whether through events, workshops, or one-to-one support, he has introduced businesses from across energy, transport, health, and digital industries to the opportunities that space can offer. His role is as much about building confidence and networks as it is about funding, helping organisations see new possibilities and navigate the route to delivery.
Before joining ESA, Ken worked at the intersection of design, engineering, and innovation funding, managing teams in aerospace, explosives, automotive, and consumer industries, as well as leading EU-funded innovation programmes. He also has extensive experience as a bid-writing consultant, supporting companies to secure competitive funding.
When not working with innovators, Ken explores his creative side through painting, podcasting, performing improvised comed , and playing the ukulele.
UK Ambassador: Grant Day
Grant began his role as Ambassador in 2022 with a background in Technology Transfer holding an extensive portfolio of innovation and commercialisation projects in cybersecurity, autonomous transport and industrial applications of data science.
As Ambassador, Grant has supported 42 APQ applications with more than 75% progressing to the next stage.
Grant is an active member of the whole UK Space Ecosystem and clusters. Specifically, Grant sits on the leadership council for the Space Wales Cluster and is a member of the Cornwall Data, Space and Aerospace Steering Group, supporting strategy and delivery for both.
Prioritisation has been set in alignment with the UK's Modern Industrial Strategy (2025). Focus applied to the Growth Sectors and Frontier Industries where space-derived data, and smart use of that data, can play a meaningful role, namely:
- Clean Energy Industries
- Financial Services
- Clean Transport (aerospace, automotive, maritime & rail)
- Agri-tech
- Medical Technologies
Email: G.M.Day@exeter.ac.uk
Linkedin - Grant Day