Ignite Space returns for its fourth year to fuel the next wave of collaboration and innovation in the UK space industry.
The SME-focused conference, brought to you by the UK Space Agency and delivered by business support organisation UMi, will serve as a vital platform to showcase emerging opportunities in the UK space sector as well as the extensive support available to all businesses looking to enter the sector.
Having tripled in size over the past decade, the UK space sector now generates an impressive £18.9 billion in annual income, providing employment for more than 52,000 people. From Shetland to Cornwall, the space industry remains a robust engine for growth across the UK.
Ignite Space is a free-to-attend, two-day conference designed for anyone involved in or seeking opportunities in the UK space sector. The event will be held at the National Space Centre in Leicester on 5 and 6 February 2025. From SMEs already in the space sector to businesses with space-applicable technologies, all are encouraged to attend.
The conference boasts a diverse lineup of speakers representing the full space ecosystem from academia to government and start-ups to established space businesses.
The agenda will feature keynotes from industry leaders including the UK Space Agency's Deputy CEO's Annelies Look and Chris White-Horne, as well as Suzie Imber, Professor of Planetary Science at the University of Leicester and Mark Dumville, CEO of GMV NSL.
With support from industry leading partners including Astro Agency, Leicester Space Park, Photonics, and Technia, Ignite Space is well-equipped to support the diverse needs of businesses in the sector, with engaging panel sessions covering topics such as innovation, skills, investment, emerging technology, sustainability and more.
Ignite Space aims to engage over 500 businesses across two days, showcasing support ecosystems, and providing practical insights and tools for growth.
Portia Bircher, Business Support and Growth Manager at UK Space Agency, said:
Ignite Space isn't just for traditional space businesses, but for any who have something to offer to the sector. The event is unique because it is entirely focused on startups and SMEs, and UK Space Agency's commitment to creating opportunities for them.
These businesses are vital to sustain a thriving space sector, providing innovation and creativity to provide solutions that will truly enrich and enhance people's lives.
The UK Space Agency is dedicated to supporting startups through programmes and initiatives, such as Ignite Space, to help sustain the UK space sector and ensure our continued leadership in this exciting industry.
Suzanne McCreedy, Chief Commercial Offer at UMi, said:
Ignite Space is not just a conference; it's a platform to bring together the brightest minds, emerging businesses, and industry leaders to foster a dynamic space ecosystem. This presents a fantastic opportunity for all businesses with an interest in the space sector to connect, learn, and be inspired.
In addition to the industry-specific support on the day, attendees will receive six months free access to UMi Sat Nav, a digital platform offering tools and resources, access to funding, and a monthly adviser check-in designed to help businesses do more and go further.
Join industry colleagues to drive innovation, foster partnerships, and support the achievement of the UK's space ambitions by registering at www.ignite-space.co.uk