Finland’s fast-growing space sector has a new opportunity to connect with European innovation: ESA Phi Lab Austria is now accepting applications from all ESA member states for its latest open call, aimed at accelerating upstream space research and technology development. The programme is calling for bold, high-potential proposals from startups, research groups and companies developing space hardware or software with strong commercial potential. The deadline for submitting an application is on 8th of October, 2025.
This call is especially relevant for Finnish teams working on next-generation technologies like navigation, Earth observation, propulsion, onboard computing and other systems designed for industrialisation from the outset. ESA Phi Lab Austria is looking for projects that not only push technical boundaries but are also built for market impact with clear evidence of customer interest and long-term viability.
Successful applicants can receive innovation seed funding in the range of €200.000 to €300.000, covering between 50% to 100% of eligible project costs. To support high-quality submissions, ESA Phi Lab Austria offers a free pre-proposal support process, which applicants are encouraged to engage with at least six weeks before the deadline. In addition, a webinar will be hosted on Tuesday, 8th of July at 10:00 (CET), where the key highlights and opportunities of the open call are presented. After submitting a full proposal, selected teams will be invited to pitch their ideas to the ESA Phi Lab Austria board during the final evaluation round.
For the Finnish space industry, programmes like this offer more than funding: they provide a gateway to deep technical partnerships, visibility in the European ecosystem and a chance to shape the next wave of space innovation on a global scale.
More information, including the application process and contact form, is available here.
