Six projects will use satellite technology and AI to transform how the UK tackles key challenges in climate and transport following £1.5m in UK Space Agency funding.

Delivered through the Unlocking Space for Business programme, the projects demonstrate how satellite data combined with AI can deliver practical, scalable solutions to real-world challenges. This supports the Government’s Industrial Strategy by driving innovation in priority sectors, accelerating growth and developing technological leadership.

The funding will help financial services and transport businesses accelerate the deployment of innovations that reduce carbon emissions, support the transition to net zero, and boost accessibility, while creating new growth opportunities for the UK’s space sector, which already employs 56,000 people.

“These innovative projects showcase the transformative power of Britain’s space sector,” DSIT minister Ian Murray said.

“From reducing emissions to making our streets more accessible, we’re backing the satellite technology and AI solutions that really make a difference to people’s lives.”

Each project addresses specific market gaps where traditional terrestrial data has proven to be insufficient or costly. The funding enables businesses to develop scalable solutions that can be deployed nationally and exported internationally, positioning Britain as a leader in space-enabled climate solutions.

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“These projects show how the UK’s space sector is delivering real-world impact, using satellite data and AI to tackle climate change, decarbonise transport, and improve accessibility,” Dr Craig Brown, investment director at the UK Space Agency said.

“By supporting innovation in sectors that haven’t traditionally used space technology, we’re unlocking new economic opportunities and helping to build a more sustainable, inclusive future.”

The Unlocking Space for Business programme addresses barriers to the adoption of space solutions and has engaged more than 350 organisations to date, supporting a range of projects across insurance, investment, transport and logistics.

This forms part of the UK Space Agency’s wider Unlocking Space Programme which aims to grow high potential UK space companies by unlocking revenue and investment opportunities. Across its programmes, the UK Space Agency catalysed investment and revenue of at least £2.2 billion for the UK space sector in 2024/2025.