Transport and logistics targeted as key beneficiary of satellite data and services
Unlocking Space for Business is a new UK Space Agency programme supporting companies, including the Transport & Logistics Sector, to deliver operational, customer and environmental benefits through the use of innovative satellite data and services.
The 18-month Government programme will provide workshops, networking events, learning and development sessions, and online resources to support companies in their understanding of what satellite data and services can mean for them. Activities will include the opportunity to bid for a share of up to £6 million UK Space Agency funding later this year to help launch innovative pilot projects, data procurement or partnerships.
Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said, “Unlocking Space for Business will champion the use of space and help tackle barriers facing organisations that have not traditionally used satellite data or services. This will help catalyse further investment into our growing space sector and deliver greater benefits for businesses, people, and the environment.
“This is just one of the ways we’re working to deliver the goal set out in the National Space Strategy to build one of the most innovative and attractive space economies in the world, developing new skills and creating jobs.”
George Freeman MP, Minister of State at the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology added, “With UK space open for business like never before, sectors as diverse as transport and finance have a huge opportunity to bring the benefits of satellite data down to Earth and improve their operations, deliver for customers and ultimately grow their industries.
“Unlocking Space for Business will build on the multi-billion-pound contribution of space to the UK economy, helping to create jobs and economic growth while driving forward our ambitions to make the UK a science and technology superpower.”
Delivery of the project is being supported by PwC and the Satellite Applications Catapult.
Faye Melly, Delivery Partner at PwC, said, “Businesses today face significant challenges which demand innovative solutions. The to-do list can range from driving operational efficiencies and strengthening customer experience, through to taking action to drive towards Net Zero. In all of these areas space can play a pivotal role.
Lucy Edge, Chief Operating Officer and Acting CEO at the Satellite Applications Catapult, said, “By bringing together key players in the satellite industry, integrators and end users, we’ll make it easier for businesses to access the business-critical data they did not even know was available to them. We’ll also connect companies with government funding sources to test out pilot projects using satellite tech.
“Satellite services drive innovation in all businesses and will boost the bottom line. By building up these partnerships and support systems, we aim to accelerate the adoption of satellite solutions across the private sector.”
Geraint Evans, Chief Executive of the UK Major Ports Group (UKMPG), said, “Major ports and the wider maritime sector are at the forefront of the technological revolution and satellite services has the potential to play a key role in driving even greater efficiencies, safety and the growth of international trade through our British ports.
“We will continue to work closely with the UK Space Agency to ensure that our major ports, which collectively handle 75% of the UK’s port volumes, can continue to lead as a sector in utilising innovative solutions using satellite technology.”
Unlocking Space for Business is part of the UK Space Agency’s Inspiration Programme, directly delivering the National Space Strategy (NSS) goal to use space to deliver for UK citizens and the world by increasing public awareness of the critical role space-based assets play in our daily lives, emphasising how they can be leveraged to enable business benefits such as improving public services and combating challenges such as the climate emergency.