European Space-Technology Transfer Support for SMEs

Abstract

Since the inception of the European Space Agency's (ESA) technology transfer programme (TTP) in 1990, more than 400 potential spin-off technologies have been marketed throughout Europe by the Spacelink network of technology brokers that have been contracted to assist ESA in implementing the programme. During the eight years of programme operation, more than 70 transfers of space technology to many sectors of industry throughout Europe have been achieved. Over half of the technology donor and receiver companies to date have been SMEs. The work done by the TTP and Spacelink is complemented by ESA's recently established SME Initiative, which aims to promote better interactions between SMEs and the space industry as a whole. This paper describes both of these ESA programmes, and outlines ways in which SMEs can be supported and participate in space technology transfer activities.