Deadline for submitting an Idea Outline: 12 September 2025
Project Title and Goal Alignment*: What specific problem does your idea solve, and how does it align with the exploratory, research-focused objectives of this Call? (Tip: Proposals must prioritise early-stage research, not commercial development or mature product deployment. Clearly indicate the research focus.)
Team and Partnerships*: Who are the key team members and partners, and what research institutions are directly involved with budgeted roles? Do you need help forming your consortium? (Tip: Active involvement of a university or research organization is expected, either leading the application or as part of the team. An ideal team also includes a first user, and a commercial entity that can implement the solution. Indicate budget allocation and tasks involving research actors.)
Technology and Innovation*: What is the innovation? How does it improve over the current state-of-the-art, and what is the starting Technology Readiness Level (TRL)? (Tip: Describe both the technical novelty and TRL. Position your innovation against existing solutions and identify a clear advancement. Be realistic and transparent about TRL. If your innovation is at TRL 3 or above, it may be a better fit for ESA programs such as InCubed or GSTP.)
Space Connection*: How does your idea leverage space assets (e.g., data, infrastructure, technology) or support the space industry? Why is Phi-Lab a strategic fit? (Tip: Explain the link to space activities and why ESA Phi-Lab adds critical value to your innovation journey. Emphasise the research dimension of your space-related contribution. Proposals should not focus solely on applying existing technologies for commercial benefit.)
Target Market and Impact*: Who are your potential customers or users, and why will they choose your solution? What potential socio-economic impact could your project have? (Tip: Include a “first user” in your team, or at least a letter of interest.)
Intellectual Property and Commercial Strategy*: Do you own all the intellectual property rights that enable this project? If not, how do you plan to handle this? (Tip: Be upfront on this matter so we can assist you in proposal preparation.)
Additional Information
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