The two calls are part of the ESA strategy to stimulate innovation and competitiveness in the commercial space applications sector. Through these initiatives, the Agency aims to support the entire development path of a service: from the initial feasibility study phase, through concept validation with a minimum viable product, to the implementation of pilot projects in a real operational environment.
The “open” approach allows applications to be submitted when the project is mature, ensuring flexibility in planning and rapid response times from ESA. A key requirement for both calls is the integration of at least one space asset, such as Earth observation data, satellite navigation, or telecommunications.
ESA: How the Kick-starts Call Works
The “Kick-starts” call (ref. ESA-STAR 6-60021) is aimed at supporting six-month feasibility studies to determine the technical feasibility and commercial sustainability of a service.