Local innovators in aerospace and space technology now have a new funding opportunity through the Space Vandenberg Innovation Fund, announced by REACH, Central Coast’s economic development organization. This competitive grant program offers $525,000 aimed at enhancing projects in space, aerospace, and dual-use technology throughout San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.
The initiative is part of the broader Space Vandenberg project, a collaboration with Cal Poly and UC Santa Barbara, to transform Vandenberg Space Force Base into a commercial spaceport and innovation hub, which will also generate jobs and training opportunities. Backed by the California Jobs First program, the fund welcomes applications from various groups, including students, researchers, startups, and established companies, with three funding tiers:
- Discover: Up to $7,500 for early-stage ideas.
- Ignite: Up to $50,000 for advancing promising technology.
- Launch: Up to $100,000 for projects ready for market adoption.
The fund aims to support diverse activities that ease the transition of innovative ideas to market and bolster the region’s competitive stance in the space sector. “By investing in cutting-edge technologies…we’re accelerating growth and strengthening our hub for innovation,” states Melissa James, president and CEO of REACH.
Applications require a Letter of Intent by 5 p.m. on Oct. 2, followed by a full application (due by Oct. 16 for those selected). Award winners are expected to be announced in December. More details can be found at spacevandenberg.com. Questions can be directed to the designated email address.
