The CASSINI initiative (Competitive Space Start-ups for Innovation) is designed to boost space businesses in Europe. It supports entrepreneurs, start-ups, and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the space industry for the 2021-2027 period. CASSINI provides end-to-end support to help grow space businesses, from getting an idea off the ground to taking it to market.
A €1 billion EU seed and growth fund
Support and visibility with investor and partner networks
Coaching and mentoring
Cash prizes through innovation challenges and hackathons
Business acceleration
In-Orbit Demonstration / Validation (IOD / IOV) programme
Online competitions for students, researchers and entrepreneurs to foster high-impact EU Space data ideas and concepts. Held twice a year focusing on sustainability and digitalisation goals. Winning teams receive cash prizes and access to mentoring.
Boost Galileo and Copernicus data solutions with clear market uptake. Entrepreneur teams and early-stage start-ups compete to address real-world issues in sectors like health or mobility. Win cash prizes, network, and develop market-ready products.
Coaching, training, and events for space start-ups who already have products on the market and pre-commercial success. Develop sales and fundraising skills, grow networks, and connect with partners and clients.
Dedicated events connecting start-ups, scale-ups, and SMEs to investors and bigger businesses. Receive pitch training, curated introductions, and 1-on-1 meetings to secure funding and form partnerships.
Provides up to €1 billion risk capital to venture capital funds. Fosters investment in EU-based space companies, generating benefits for both investors and entrepreneurs.