Guidance for International Proposals
Updated 28 April 2026
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/accelerating-commercialisation-and-competitiveness-of-the-european-space-sector-access/guidance-for-international-proposals
The following guidance establishes the UK Space Agency rules of international proposals that can be submitted through the ESA Business Applications and Space Solutions programme. The aim is to allow project proposals with far reaching international commercial potential to have a clear process for applying for funding from the programme.
FAQs
Can non-UK entities apply for BASS as part of an international consortium?
Yes. Non-UK entities can participate in BASS projects as part of an international consortium through the Open Call Proof of Concept studies and Pilot Projects route. The UK lead applicant must indicate consortium status in the Activity Pitch Questionnaire (APQ). Non-UK members cannot receive UKSA funding directly but may secure support from their own ESA member state if applicable. If the consortium has members outside of ESA state members, the UK company must be the lead organisation and other consortium members will not be able to receive funding.
How do non-UK entities obtain authorisation from their member state?
The UK Space Agency cannot advise on other member states’ internal processes for issuing Authorisation of Funding letters and you should contact the appropriate National Delegate in the first instance. Details of BASS National Delegates are available on the ESA website. Each member state has its own procedure.
Can non-UK entities participate in projects outside ESA?
Participation must align with ESA’s ACCESS Element 2 framework. Non-UK entities can join projects under ESA rules, but activities outside ESA’s remit are not eligible for BASS support.
How much funding can non-UK entities based in ESA member states expect?
Funding for non-UK entities must come from their own member state, not the UK Space Agency. Rates vary by country and the respective National Delegate can provide specific details. The UK Space Agency does not match other states’ intervention levels.
Will UKSA match the co-funding provided by a non-UK entity’s member state?
No. The UK Space Agency only funds UK entities (up to 50% of eligible costs) through this ESA programme. Other member states fund their own state entities independently.
What is the process for non-UK entities in a UK-led consortium?
Non-UK entities must secure authorisation from their own National Delegate. The UK lead applies for UK Space Agency/ESA funding and obtains an Authorisation of Funding (AoF) for the UK portion. Coordination across member states is led by the consortium and close engagement with the respective National Delegations is essential.
What is the process for UK participants in a non-UK led consortium?
UK participants must request an AoF from the UK Space Agency. For this, applicants must share both the Outline Proposal and Full Proposals with the Space Data and Applications at the appropriate times, taking note of the relevant timelines on the UKSA BASS Open Call Application Process [INSERT LINK TO NEW “BASS Open Call Application Process” PAGE]. For significant requests (over €250k), the UK Space Agency may require attendance at a BASS Expert Panel before at Outline Proposal stage.
Do non-UK entities need a UK presence to apply?
Yes, if they are seeking funding from the UK Space Agency. They can participate as subcontractors or consortium members with funding from their own National Delegate if within an participating ESA Member State.
Can non-UK entities lead a BASS project?
Yes, provided the project is submitted through ESA’s Business Applications portal and complies with ESA rules. The UK Space Agency will only consider funding for UK entities.
What support can the UK Space Agency offer to non-UK entities?
The UK Space Agency primarily supports UK participants but can:
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Provide guidance on UK market access.
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Share information on bilateral programmes involving the UK.
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Information on setting up an office in the UK.
What support does ESA provide for non-UK entities looking to establish themselves in the UK?
ESAs support offer is detailed on their website here: Home - ESA Commercialisation Gateway