Catapult looks to extend Centres of Excellence network

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The Satellite Applications Catapult is planning to extend its network of Centres of Excellence in order to broaden its regional engagement and support the growth of the UK’s Satellite Applications sector.

In March 2014, the Catapult established the first three Centres – in the East Midlands, North East England and Scotland. It is now is calling for organisations to respond to a new call for applications, which is open until 5pm on 13 January 2016.

Stuart Martin, CEO of the Satellite Applications Catapult, said: “In the past 18 months, we have seen a significant upturn in regional engagement thanks to our three Centres. This has manifested itself with activities linking up the science base, large industry and SMEs to help develop satellite-derived applications and solutions”.

“Through this further expansion, we anticipate that the new Centres will drive greater awareness about the opportunities provided by satellite data and technology among potential market sectors not currently using them, and identify new commercial opportunities for the UK’s fast-growing Space sector.”

Higher education institutions, research council institutes, independent research organisations, and appropriate not-for-profit intermediary organisations can apply to create a Centre of Excellence.

Successful applicants which are involved in innovating through leading-edge satellite applications research and development will be expected to:

  • Identify key areas of research in current or potential satellite applications
  • Link local industry and user markets to foster new collaborations
  • Identify and bridge capability gaps to enable market sector growth
  • Collaborate with business partners to alleviate relevant market failures