InCubed Webinar 16 June 2026 – Q&A
Updated 24 June 2026
© Crown copyright 2026
This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: psi@nationalarchives.gov.uk.
Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.
This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/earth-observation-incubed-funding-call/incubed-webinar-16-june-2026-qa
1. International (Overseas) Collaboration
Is overseas collaboration encouraged? Will it be weighted favourably?
It is not mandatory and not weighted differently in assessment. Proposals with or without international partners are treated equally. Collaboration is welcome where it adds value, such as access to markets or capability, but applicants must demonstrate clear benefit to the UK.
2. Scope of the Call
Is the call limited to specific areas or is it open in scope?
The call is broad in scope and open across the Earth Observation value chain, including upstream (e.g. sensors and platforms), midstream (data processing), and downstream (applications and services). The term ‘not open’ refers only to timing, meaning there is a fixed deadline.
3. Market Demand – De-risking vs Product Development
Is there a difference in the level of market evidence required for de-risking vs product development?
In both cases, applicants must demonstrate that there is a real market or user base and that someone is willing to pay for or use the product or service. The key requirement is showing a credible future beyond the project.
4. Funding Levels
What is the UK/ESA funding support levels?
Funding levels depend on the type of organisation (e.g. academia vs industry) and the technical complexity of the project. Full details are provided at https://incubed.esa.int
5. Project Timeline / Start Dates
When are projects expected to start?
All funded projects are expected to be kicked off by no later than the end of December 2026.
6. Location of Customers / Market
Do customers need to be UK-based?
No, customers can be located anywhere globally. However, projects must demonstrate economic benefit to the UK, and revenue or business impact should be accrued to UK-based organisations.
7. Collaboration for Market Access
Can overseas partners be used mainly as a route to market?
Yes, this is acceptable. However, applicants must still show clear benefit to the UK and provide supporting evidence of market demand where possible.
8. Additional Clarifications
Will the recording be shared?