The SBIC programmes together form a trajectory that can see the transformation of space related business concepts into successful commercial companies. We offer support to entrepreneurs, providing introductions to technical expertise and facilitating business development. To join any of our programmes, you first need to be located in the Netherlands – and we can help you there as well! Everything is outlined on the SBIC programmes page.
Open to space entrepreneurs based in the Netherlands
To join our programmes and get access to the Dutch space ecosystem via SBIC Noordwijk, you will need to be based in the Netherlands. If you then progress to join ESA BIC, your startup needs to be registered as a private limited company – in Dutch this is a besloten vennootschap (BV). You can apply to join our programmes while you are still residing outside NL, just once you start the programme then you will need to be here. If you have yet relocate, you can get our help via the Soft Landing programme.
Space business support from SBIC Noordwijk
The programme – or programmes – that you opt for at SBIC Noordwijk depends on your current situation. Firstly, to join any programmes in our community, you need that all important space connection. Then, your first port of call might be the Ignition Programme if you still need to validate your business. This means, in short, that you will check if there is demand for your service or product. We can help you to:
- dive into the space link;
- investigate if your solution is feasible; and
- understand whether it makes sense financially.
This is done through the exclusive access you will receive to experts in the space industry. These connections await you at SBIC!
You can apply to ESA BIC Noordwijk if you are an entrepreneur or startup, based in NL and with a company that has been in existence for less than 5 years – or has yet to be founded. The programme gives you the best chance of developing your validated space business idea via a well-established network and community. Furthermore, you will also be based in the heart of the Dutch space industry. Share your business proposal in this application round and you could soon be joining our space community.
Broker managed by SBIC and NL Space Campus
Another option that could be suitable for you is to work with us via the ESA Technology Broker NL. SBIC manages this programme along with NL Space Campus and we can help you navigate your space connections. As key players within an established community for space business in the Netherlands, we also have a wide reach among the non-space sector. Space tech can be applied on Earth or terrestrial innovations could head to space. The recipe for success is first to identify the terrestrial need and we would love to hear from you – what are the problems that need solving?
GOOD TO KNOW: Every startup that has followed the SBIC Ignition Programme who went on to apply for ESA BIC Noordwijk has had a hundred percent success rate at being accepted into the ESA business incubation programme! After all, the Ignition Programme is specially designed to improve your ESA BIC application, resulting in a higher chance of acceptance.
Related recent post:
Ignition Programme 2023: Calling aspiring space entrepreneurs to apply by 21 May
