EU Funding Mastery

Funding Opportunities for European Space Startups: Recent Successes and Trends

By Tymofiy Badikov · Founder & Space Economy Expert · · ~2 min read
The short version. Recent funding successes highlight significant opportunities for European space startups. Founders should explore ESA contracts and innovative funding sources.

Overview of Recent Funding Successes

Recent developments in the European space sector demonstrate a robust interest in innovative technologies and projects. Notably, ORiS, a startup based in Turin, has secured €5 million in funding, including a €500,000 grant, to advance its wireless power transmission systems for space applications. This funding round was led by Earlybird and showcases the growing investor interest in innovative space technologies (source).

In another significant move, ispace-EUROPE has been awarded a €65 million contract by the European Space Agency (ESA) for the MAGPIE project, aimed at exploring lunar polar ice. This contract underscores ESA's commitment to supporting innovative space missions and technologies within Europe (source).

Key Trends in Funding

The recent funding rounds and contracts illustrate several trends that European space startups should be aware of:

  1. Growing Interest in Dual-Use Technologies: ORiS's focus on wireless power transmission systems highlights a trend towards dual-use technologies that can serve both space and terrestrial applications.

  2. Support from ESA: The €65 million contract awarded to ispace-EUROPE indicates that ESA is actively investing in projects that push the boundaries of space exploration. This funding can serve as a model for startups considering ESA support for their projects (source).

  3. Private Investment in Space Tech: deltaVision, a Munich-based startup, raised €10.2 million to enhance its production of spacecraft propulsion components. This round was backed by private industrial family offices and venture capital investors, demonstrating a healthy appetite for investment in space tech innovations (source).

Insights for Founders

The funding landscape for European space startups is expanding, with several avenues available:

  • ESA Contracts: Founders should explore opportunities to apply for contracts from ESA, as demonstrated by the funding awarded to ispace-EUROPE. These contracts not only provide substantial financial support but also enhance credibility and visibility in the market.
  • Private Funding: The capital raised by startups like ORiS and deltaVision suggests that private investors are keen to support innovative ideas. Founders should consider reaching out to venture capitalists and family offices that have shown interest in the space sector (source).
  • Dual-Use Applications: Focusing on technologies that have both space and terrestrial applications can attract a broader range of funding sources, as seen with ORiS.

What This Means for Founders

For founders in the European space sector, the current funding landscape offers promising opportunities. By aligning their projects with ESA's strategic interests and demonstrating innovative approaches that cater to both space and dual-use technologies, startups can enhance their chances of securing funding. Additionally, tapping into the private investment market can provide the necessary capital to scale operations and bring their innovations to fruition.

As the funding environment continues to evolve, staying informed about new opportunities and trends will be crucial for navigating the competitive landscape of the European space industry.

VIRA.space tracks live calls for funding opportunities, helping you stay updated on the latest funding avenues for your startup. Visit VIRA.space to learn more.

Informational, not investment or legal advice. Facts and figures above come from the public sources linked below at the time of writing and may be restated or updated afterward — always verify against the live source before quoting in a deck or application. VIRA does not provide financial, legal, or tax advice; for decisions based on this content, consult a qualified adviser regulated in your jurisdiction.

Sources

  1. https://www.eu-startups.com/2026/07/turin-based-oris-secures-e5-million-to-develop-wireless-power-transmission-systems-for-space-and-dual-use-applications/
  2. https://www.eu-startups.com/2026/07/ispace-europe-lands-e65-million-esa-contract-to-deliver-and-operate-magpie-europes-first-lunar-polar-ice-exploration-rover/
  3. https://spacewatch.global/2026/07/deltavision-raises-e10-2-million-to-scale-production-of-spacecraft-propulsion-components/
  4. https://www.eu-startups.com/2026/07/profitable-space-startup-deltavision-secures-e10-2-million-to-provide-the-cardiovascular-system-for-spacecraft/
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Tymofiy Badikov
Founder & Space Economy Expert · VIRA.space
MBA with specialised education in the space economy. Background in startups and diverse business ventures. Founded VIRA in September 2024 to help European space teams find and apply for institutional funding.

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