The University of South Australia’s Innovation & Collaboration Centre (ICC), Australia’s first space incubator, is now accepting applications for its 2020 Venture Catalyst Space program which aims to create a competitive and globally recognised space sector in South Australia.
Supported by State Government’s $4 million Space Innovation Fund, Venture Catalyst Space is a globally competitive program which supports founders, entrepreneurs and startups, to develop and grow innovative or disruptive ideas in the space sector.
Now in its third year, the one-of-a-kind program delivers tailored support and guidance working with a global pool of expert advisors including former NASA astronaut Pam Melroy, the Australian Space Agency, Airbus, Nova Systems, Fleet, Myriota and the Smart Satellite CRC.
Jasmine Vreugdenburg, Associate Director of the ICC, encourages companies from across the global space industry to apply for the program.
“Since launching the program we have supported ten companies to build out their minimum viable product, raise funds and develop partnerships with both research and industry in Australia.” Vreugdenburg says.
“South Australia is home to a rapidly growing space industry, and we are once again seeking applications from local and international companies wanting to develop their networks and business ideas here.”
Lux Co-Founder Katrina Albert, whose company took part in last year’s edition, said the program enabled her business to successfully build and trial its technology in a real-world setting while developing industry connections.
“During our time in the 2019 program, we completed a successful test launch of a one-storey-high aerial monitoring balloon,” Albert says.
“This launch allowed us to test our technology which is set to be rolled out at three South Australian mine sites this year.”
Applications are now open for the 2020 intake via icc.unisa.edu.au and will close on 23 March (international applicants) and 23 April (Australian applicants).
The program will run from June to December.
