The European Union has launched the Space Data Economy 2026 call under Horizon Europe, aimed at accelerating the commercial use of EU space data and strengthening the development of innovative downstream applications. The competition supports solutions based on Copernicus, Galileo and EGNSS services that can enhance decision making, drive sustainability and increase the resilience of key sectors.
Programme Overview
The call supports projects that foster the integration of space data into Europe’s strategic sectors. Applicants are expected to develop solutions tailored to practical industry needs while addressing demand fragmentation and scaling up market adoption. The programme encourages the use of digital technologies such as AI, Big Data, Blockchain and Digital Twins to create competitive and commercially viable applications.
Who Can Apply
Eligible applicants include universities, research institutions, public administrations, SMEs, startups, NGOs, cultural institutions, media organisations, healthcare institutions and other stakeholders working with space-based technologies. International cooperation is encouraged, and proposals must be submitted by consortia.
Priority Areas
Projects must focus on one of four priority areas:
– Energy: solutions that improve the deployment and management of renewable energy, strengthen energy infrastructure and support smart grid systems using GNSS and Earth Observation data;
– Climate adaptation and environmental footprint reduction: early warning systems, biodiversity monitoring, water management, disaster preparedness, climate-resilient agriculture and environmental impact mitigation;
– Green financing and insurance: tools that provide transparent, data-driven monitoring of sustainability projects and support risk assessment using space-based data;
– Liveable cities of the future: applications for smart mobility, waste and water management, sustainable construction, public safety, cultural heritage monitoring and climate-resilient urban planning.
Funding and Requirements
Total call budget: 4,300,000 EUR;
Maximum project budget: up to 2,500,000 EUR;
Funding type: grant support under Horizon Europe;
Project participants: multi-stakeholder consortia involving industry, SMEs, researchers and public authorities.
Proposals must include a business plan and demonstrate clear commercial potential. Projects should explore synergies with European satellite communication, navigation and surveillance systems.
Key Dates
Opening date: 22 October 2025;
Deadline: 24 February 2026.
Why This Matters
Space data is becoming a critical tool for energy security, climate resilience, sustainable urban development and green financial systems. This call supports scalable solutions that integrate space technologies into sectors where they can deliver high value and long-term impact. By fostering collaboration between innovators and end users, the programme strengthens Europe’s space-driven economy and enhances technological sovereignty.
Learn More
Official details and application guidelines are available on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal: link to the call.
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