ESA title

Funding

The goal of BASS Funding is to support the development of commercially successful space-based business applications in Europe, by providing funding, technical and business support for entrepreneurs. Businesses from any sector can apply to ESA Business Applications' Open Calls at any time, and in addition there are thematic calls launched throughout the year targeting specific focus areas, with a time-limited application period.

Following the implementation of ACCESS in late 2025, you can find all BASS Funding Calls here on this page as they go live. Sign up to our newsletter to keep up-to-date of up-coming funding opportunities and related webinars.

Find out more about how much funding is available by clicking through to the funding opportunity you are interested in, in the list below. 
 

Open Calls

Open Call for Proposals: Proof-of-concept Studies and Pilot Projects

         

This is a BASS Open Call for Proposals for Proof-of-concept Studies and Pilot Projects – it is an always open invitation for businesses to apply for a funding activity relating to a space-enabled application or service for any industry, market or topic. 

Open Call for Proposals: Kick-starts

         

Kick-starts are a type of feasibility study and last six months. The aim of a Kick-start is to determine whether a service is technically feasible and commercially viable, and whether there is demand for it. Kick-starts must involve the use of at least one space asset, such as satellite communications, satellite Earth observation data or satellite navigation.

Competitive Calls

Sustainable Wetlands

Call for Proposals (Competitive)      Opening date: 16-03-2026      Closing date: 01-05-2026

The Sustainable Wetlands 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.

Rural Transportation Networks

Call for Proposals (Competitive)      Opening date: 24-02-2026      Closing date: 01-04-2026

This Rural Transport Network funding call invites business to submit proposals for space-based applications and services that support rural transportation networks. Selected studies can access 75% funding by the European Space Agency, up to €75 000 per activity.

Non-Competitive Thematic Calls for Proposals

Responsible Fishing

Call for Proposals (Non-Competitive)

Fishing plays a crucial role in our food security, serving as a sustainable source of protein which are essential components of a healthy and balanced diet. However, the fishing industry faces significant threats from illegal fishing, pollution and climate change. On the other hand, consumers are changing their behaviour becoming more conscious of their carbon footprint and seeking sustainable diets that promote health. This shift has led to a growing demand for fish and fish-derived products.

Wildfires

Call for Proposals (Non-Competitive)

This initiative is part of the Wildfire Safety initiative and invites proposals for innovative services that advance wildfire management using space technology and data. The following focus areas have been designated with support from European fire and rescue services, civil protection agencies, and forest management authorities.

Kick-start Activities

Rural Transportation Networks

Call for Proposals (Competitive)      Opening date: 24 February 2026      Closing date: 01 April 2026

This Rural Transport Network funding call invites business to submit proposals for space-based applications and services that support rural transportation networks. Selected studies can access 75% funding by the European Space Agency, up to €75 000 per activity.

Sustainable Wetlands

Call for Proposals (Competitive)      Opening date: 16 March 2026      Closing date: 01 May 2026

The Sustainable Wetlands 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.