Connected Capability Networks (CCN) Call for Proposals 2b: Beyond Earth

In 2023, building on the success of the Satellite Applications Catapult’s regional programmes, which have delivered significant growth across the UK Space Ecosystem, the Catapult sought proposals (Call 1) from bidders to develop the first pilot “Connected Capability Networks (CCN)” as a next step in the journey aligning with our key strategic foci:

• Beyond Earth
• Connected and Autonomous Earth
• Sustainable Earth
• Defence and Security

As a result, in 2024, two networks we formed: UK-Autonomous and Connected Earth (UK-ACE) and UK Earth Observation Network for Sustainability (UK-EONS). Additionally, a network for Defence and Security (D&S) is in the process of being formalised (Call 2a). This iteration of the CCN call (Call 2b) seeks proposals for bidders to develop a CCN on Beyond Earth.

In line with the goals of the Catapult’s Beyond Earth Mission and the national policy landscape, the CCN should aim to develop, maintain and increase UK’s participation in the beyond earth economy. This will include strengthening networks and catalysing activity in the following focus areas:

1. In-Space Manufacturing & R&D
2. In-Space Logistics Services Adoption

As we grow our space clusters and strengthen UK space capabilities, the CCNs will support the development of a connected space ecosystem in line with the National Space Strategy. The aim is for the CCNs is to connect complementary capability offerings across the country and to map, engage and collaborate with stakeholders in the communities of interest created and connect to adjacent, non-space sectors.

The call for proposals document provides further details and the application form. All submissions must be accompanied by a full Financial Breakdown using the template found here, as well as a signed Collaboration Agreement. Please note that the Catapult will contribute up to £90k to each CCN per annum to represent no more than 50% of the total costs.

The closing date for the submission of proposals is 5pm GMT on Wednesday 20 November 2024. We will additionally be hosting a briefing and FAQ session with a member of the Beyond Earth Mission team on Thursday 26 November at 2:00 PM. To attend this session, or should you have any questions about this Call for Proposals or the UK space ecosystem please get in touch with the National Capabilities and Clusters team: ncct@sa.catapult.org.uk.

In the meantime, we encourage you to join the Space Enterprise Community (SEC) platform to connect to industry, academia and government stakeholders benefiting from the power of space data and technology: https://spaceenterprise.uk/