Ignite Space returns for its third 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 business opportunities in the UK space sector as well as the extensive support available.
Having tripled in size over the past decade, the UK space sector now generates an impressive £17.5 billion in annual income, providing employment for more than 48,000 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 Leeds Royal Armouries today (11th of June) and tomorrow (12th of June 2024), with another event in the pipeline for early 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 Daria Filichkina, COO from Astro Agency and Joshua Western CEO from Space Forge.
With a focus on creating better access to business opportunities, the event will also hear from the major organisations such as Airbus and Lockheed Martin on how SMEs can sell into and work with Primes in the Space Sector.
With support from industry leading partners including Space North East England, Space Hub Yorkshire, North West Space Cluster and Innovation Super Network, 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 is different from other space events because it is entirely focused on startups and SMEs, and UK Space Agency’s commitment to creating opportunities for them. Small businesses fuel a thriving space sector and provide the innovation and creativity required to develop technologies and services that use space to 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, along with a monthly adviser check-in designed to help businesses thrive.
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.
