Notice

Appendix B: Stage One Criteria

Published 4 March 2026

This document provides expanded guidance on the UK Space Agency’s Stage One assessment criteria for the C‑LEO Call 2: ARTES Only, setting out how proposals will be assessed and what applicants should address to demonstrate alignment with the Call objectives.

1. Strategic Fit

1.1 Applicant Guidance

At this initial stage, provide a clear, high-level indication of how your proposal aligns with the strategic aims of the C-LEO Programme and wider UK Government priorities. Responses should briefly outline which key technology areas (On-Board Processing, Active Antennas, Optical Inter-Satellite Links, Networking and Routing, User Terminals) your project targets and how it supports the programme’s objectives to:

• Accelerate the commercialisation and rapid industrialisation of key technologies and capabilities for high-volume constellations.
• Help UK companies secure a significant share of high-value contracts expected over the next 4–5 years.
• Develop UK onshore industrial capabilities in R&D-intensive areas of the constellation value chain.
• Catalyse private sector investment by signalling the UK’s long-term commitment to the satcoms sector.

Stronger responses will also reference wider Government priorities such as net zero or levelling up.

1.2 Evaluator Guidance on Scoring

• 0 — No evidence of alignment to the call objectives, or substantial information is missing.
• 1 — Very limited or unclear alignment to the call objectives; relevance is asserted but not explained.
• 2 — Some alignment indicated, but links to C‑LEO objectives or technology areas lack clarity or supporting detail.
• 3 — Clear alignment to one or more C‑LEO technology areas and objectives, with a basic but coherent rationale.
• 4 — Strong alignment to programme objectives, with confidence in strategic relevance and clear UK benefit.
• 5 — Clear and compelling alignment to programme objectives and relevant wider Government priorities, supported by concise and credible evidence.

1.3 Weighting

35%

2. Value for Money

2.1 Applicant Guidance

Provide a detailed breakdown of costs, demonstrating robust financial planning and justification. Show that the budget represents the minimum required to deliver objectives and offers strong value for money. Confirm quotes and cost mitigations and explain why public funding is the most effective mechanism.

2.2 Evaluator Guidance on Scoring

• 0 — No explanation of funding need or cost rationale, or substantial information is missing.
• 1 — Very limited justification for UK Space Agency support; costs appear unclear or disproportionate.
• 2 — Some indication of funding need and basic cost outline, but limited confidence in value for money.
• 3 — Clear explanation of why UK Space Agency support is required and how funds will be used; costs appear broadly proportionate to scope.
• 4 — Strong case for value for money, with clear reasoning and confidence that costs are realistic and appropriate at Stage One.
• 5 — Compelling justification demonstrating efficient use of public funds, strong proportionality, and clear alignment with the ambition of the C‑LEO Programme.

2.3 Weighting

30%

3. Catalyse Investment

3.1 Applicant Guidance

Provide detailed evidence of how the project will attract additional investment beyond its lifetime, including quantified estimates of future growth, job creation, and supply chain benefits. Explain calculation methods and outline how the project strengthens the UK’s global position.

3.2 Evaluator Guidance on Scoring

• 0 — No evidence of future investment potential or sector impact.
• 1 — Very limited or vague reference to possible investment or growth, with no clear pathway.
• 2 — Some indication of potential benefits but supporting detail or confidence in impact is limited.
• 3 — Clear statement of likely benefits (e.g. growth, jobs, supply chain), with a basic but plausible rationale.
• 4 — Strong case for future investment and sector growth, supported by credible examples or evidence.
• 5 — Highly compelling evidence that the project will catalyse significant future investment, strengthen UK capability, and deliver strategic advantage.

3.3 Weighting

35%