Funding opportunity
This opportunity invites businesses to submit proposals for space-based applications and services that support wetland sustainability while delivering economically viable business cases. Selected studies can access 75% funding from the European Space Agency, with a maximum of €75,000 per activity.
The challenge
Wetlands are vital ecosystems, offering benefits such as water purification, flood control and biodiversity support. Yet, they are threatened by drainage, pollution and climate change. Sustainable management is increasingly important, driving growth in the wetland restoration market, which is projected to reach USD 1.5 billion globally by 2027. Europe leads this expansion, bolstered by policies such as the EU Nature Restoration Law and the Water Framework Directive, which create new opportunities and demand for conservation and restoration services. Innovative solutions are urgently needed, and the use of space data has the potential to make a significant difference in supporting wetland sustainability.
Topics of relevance
The following topics of interest were identified by ESA. Additional topics for any initiatives related to wetland sustainability—even if not listed here – are also eligible under this call.
- Climate change and flood risk: Monitoring wetland changes and flood risk, and supporting adaptation strategies.
- Pollution control: Detecting pollutant levels and helping to reduce pollution in wetlands.
- Biodiversity and restoration: Tracking species, managing habitats and supporting conservation efforts.
- Water management: Optimising water use, ensuring clean water and forecasting flooding.
- Carbon capture and credits: Monitoring and enhancing carbon sequestration, and supporting carbon credit schemes.
- Sustainable land use: Detecting land use changes and threats to wetlands for better conservation planning.
- Community livelihoods: Tracking sustainable use of resources and promoting eco-tourism, benefiting local communities.
- Biodiversity credits: Monitoring biodiversity gains and managing credit programmes.
Value of space
Satellite Earth Observation (SatEO) delivers crucial data for monitoring wetland changes, ecosystem health, and conservation by tracking vegetation, water levels and land use shifts.
Satellite Communications (Satcom) enables real-time data transfer and supports sensor networks for continuous environmental monitoring, enhancing coordination and timely management.
Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) provides precise mapping and surveying, aiding navigation, research and tracking changes in wetland topography.
What we look for
We invite submissions of early-stage service concepts that
- address customer needs
- show commercial potential and technical feasibility
- leverage satellite data or space technology
Kick-starts should be led by experienced, motivated teams, with a clear ambition and a credible pathway to develop commercially viable services.
What we offer
We offer funding and support to companies, specifically to help teams carry out a feasibility study over a six-month period. During this time, teams can develop their business case, work on technical aspects, validate the integration of satellite data and space technologies into the proposed solution, and engage actively with users and customers.
We offer:
- 75% funding from the European Space Agency, to a maximum of €75,000 for each selected study, provided on a zero-equity basis. The total cost per study is up to €100,000.
- Technical and commercial guidance.
- Access to our network and partners.
- Use of the ESA brand for your service.
Please note that we do not provide direct access to space data, nor are we responsible for the space segment of service development. Applicants should have a clear plan for how they will obtain the required space data, and ensure they have the necessary expertise within their team to manage this aspect.
Who can apply
This opportunity is open to companies that intend to develop space-enabled services and products related, but not restricted, to the topics of relevance outlined above.
To be eligible for funding, your team must be based in one of the following countries: Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Norway is not supporting this call.
Potential Tenderers are strongly advised to contact the National Delegation(s) as soon as possible and to apply for a Written Authorisation for ESA funding.
Webinar
If you would like to find out more, there will be a free online webinar on 12 March 2026. Registration details will be added here soon.
Disclaimer
Please note that all information provided on this webpage is for general guidance only. In case of any discrepancies or conflicts, the official ESA sources shall always take precedence. These include, but are not limited to:
- esa-star publication
- esa-star tendering
Participants are strongly advised to refer to these official channels for authoritative and up-to-date information regarding ESA opportunities, requirements, and procedures.