Airbus Launchpad – Free 6-Month Innovation Programme for UK Space SMEs

The Airbus Launchpad is an innovation hub at Airbus Defence and Space in Stevenage, designed to help UK space SMEs develop technologies, increase their Technology Readiness Levels and accelerate commercialisation. Selected companies receive a six-month, no-cost residency with access to Airbus facilities, expertise and industry connections.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Six months of free residency at the Airbus Launchpad

• Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and engineering facilities

• Access to Airbus technical experts and subject-matter specialists

• Advanced simulation and modelling tools

• Rapid prototyping and testing facilities

• Robotics, AR/VR and digital development facilities

• Workshops, accelerators, hackathons and industry events

• Opportunities to showcase products and technologies through customer demonstrations

• Networking and collaboration within the wider UK space ecosystem.

Who is it for?

• UK space SMEs and startups

• New and emerging businesses within the UK space ecosystem

• Companies developing technologies that could benefit from specialist testing, prototyping or engineering facilities

• Businesses looking to advance the maturity of their technology and strengthen their route towards commercialisation.

Funding amount: No direct grant funding. The programme provides facilities, workspace and specialist support at no cost instead.

Airbus announced applications for its second Launchpad SME cohort on 22 July 2026, so this is a current opportunity.