Apply Now: Space Refuelling Interface for EU Strategic Autonomy

Deadline: 03-Sep-2026

The European Commission is offering grants to strengthen EU space autonomy by developing resilient space equipment and technologies with secure, reliable supply chains. Funding of €2–3 million per project supports initiatives that reduce non-EU dependencies, ensure unrestricted access to critical space technologies, and enhance global competitiveness.

Overview

The European Commission seeks proposals to advance EU strategic autonomy in space. The program aims to:

• Reduce reliance on non-EU suppliers of critical space equipment and technologies

• Establish trustworthy, resilient supply chains within the EU or with approved third-country partners

• Ensure unrestricted access to essential technologies for EU space missions and pilot projects such as In-Orbit Space Operations

• Strengthen EU competitiveness by developing products matching or surpassing non-EU alternatives

The initiative focuses on maturing technologies critical to EU missions while maintaining compliance with export control regulations.

Funding Details

• Total funding available: €2,940,000

• Eligible grant per project: €2,000,000 – €3,000,000

• Eligibility: Any legal entity worldwide, including non-associated third countries and international organizations, provided Horizon Europe rules are followed

Objectives and Strategic Goals

1. EU Strategic Autonomy:

   • Reduce dependencies on non-EU sources of critical space equipment

   • Develop resilient supply chains that are secure and compliant with EU strategic requirements

2. Resilient Supply Chains:

   • Prioritize EU-based production and sourcing

   • Use trustworthy third-country partners only when necessary

   • Ensure uninterrupted access to space technologies unaffected by export restrictions

3. Global Competitiveness:

   • Achieve or exceed performance levels of non-EU products

   • Enable EU industry to compete globally in space technology

4. Technology Development:

   • Focus on technologies identified in the EU Observatory of Critical Technologies roadmap

   • Include areas such as Robotics Manipulators for Space Applications and the Space Refuelling Interface

Who Can Apply?

Eligible participants include:

• European and non-European legal entities

• Public or private organizations, including companies, universities, and research institutions

• International organizations, as long as Horizon Europe regulations are met

Key Requirements for Applicants

• Describe the technology and technology processes used

• Provide a high-level supply chain breakdown

• Demonstrate that the supply chain and final product are free from legal export restrictions, such as ITAR or equivalent

• Identify any parts of the supply chain affected by non-EU export controls (e.g., EAR99)

• Explain strategies to mitigate export restriction risks and assess supply chain vulnerabilities

Project Expectations

Projects should:

• Develop critical space equipment to reduce dependency on non-EU sources

• Establish long-term sustainable supply chains

• Promote collaboration between European space and non-space industries

• Include complementary activities at national or EU levels

Deliverables and Compliance

• Detailed technology development plan

• Supply chain map showing EU and third-country involvement

• Compliance with export control regulations

• Risk assessment for vulnerabilities in the supply chain

Why This Grant Matters

• Ensures EU strategic autonomy in space operations

• Reduces exposure to export restrictions and supply chain disruptions

• Supports the development of world-class EU space technologies

• Encourages industry collaboration and innovation in space robotics and operations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the purpose of this grant?
To strengthen EU strategic autonomy by supporting the development of critical space equipment and resilient supply chains.

2. What is the funding range?
Individual projects are eligible for €2,000,000 to €3,000,000, with a total of €2,940,000 available.

3. Who can apply?
Any legal entity worldwide, including non-associated third countries and international organizations, provided Horizon Europe regulations are met.

4. What technologies are targeted?
Focus areas include Robotics Manipulators for Space Applications, Space Refuelling Interfaces, and other critical technologies on the EU Observatory of Critical Technologies roadmap.

5. Are there restrictions on supply chains?
Yes. Supply chains must be resilient, reliable, and free from legal export restrictions such as ITAR or equivalent regulations.

6. Can non-EU partners participate?
Yes, but only if they are trustworthy and compliant with export rules, and EU strategic autonomy is not compromised.

7. What are the main expectations for projects?
Develop critical space equipment, establish resilient supply chains, mitigate export risks, and promote EU competitiveness globally.

Conclusion

This European Commission funding opportunity enables projects that advance EU space autonomy, strengthen supply chains, and enhance global competitiveness. By developing resilient, high-performance space technologies, EU stakeholders can achieve strategic independence and secure reliable access to critical space equipment for current and future missions.

For more information, visit European Commission.