Notice

C-LEO call webinar slides - HTML

Updated 3 May 2024

This notice was withdrawn on 24 October 2024

The call is now closed.

1. Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (C-LEO) Programme: Guide to making an application

1.1 Agenda

• introduction to the C-LEO team
• what is C-LEO?
• eligibility and programme design
• the application process
• forms and guidance

2. Introduction to the C-LEO team

2.1 Who are we?

• the UK Space Agency has set up a specific C-LEO team to deliver this funding programme.
• the C-LEO team works in close partnership with the UK Space Agency Telecoms team to ensure C-LEO remains aligned to the broader telecoms work
• we in the C-LEO team should be your first port-of-call for C-LEO questions, which should be sent to C-LEO@ukspaceagency.gov.uk

3. What is C-LEO?

• connectivity in low-Earth orbit – C-LEO (pronounced “see-lee-oh”)
• aimed at developing technologies for building the next generation of satellite constellations and bringing them to market
• the C-LEO programme is strongly aligned with three of the 4 core pillars of the National Space Strategy

3.1 Targeted technologies

• innovative satellite communication technology in 5 technology areas
• technology readiness levels (TRL) of between 4 and 6, however proposals with higher TRL will be considered

4. Eligibility and programme design

4.1 Eligibility

• must be a UK-based entity
• commercial companies must have a UK registration at Companies House
• successful applicants must have a UK bank account
• use of non-UK partners must either be self-funded or be funded by other ESA delegates

4.2 Programme design

• a single application, with two possible funding routes
• different funding levels for small, medium and large enterprises
• for national grant funding, the rates opposite include a 15% uplift to the subsidy ratios for collaborative projects
• universities rates are 80% national and 100% ARTES
• research organisations can apply for 100%

5. The application process

5.1 Call process

1. expression of interest (EoI) drafting period (6 weeks)
2. EoIs received and assessed
3. successful applicants asked to complete application form. Unsuccessful applicants receive feedback
4. application forms assessed
5. successful applicants have funding route decided, detailed below. Unsuccessful applicants receive feedback

National grant funding route:

1. successful applicants begin finalising grant agreement with the UK Space Agency
2. Grants signed, projects begin

Further stages for ESA contract funding route:

1. successful applicants asked to complete ESA outline proposal
2. ESA reviews outline proposals
3. applicants asked to complete ESA full proposal
4. UK Space Agency reviews full proposals
5. applicants submit full proposals to ESA
6. contracts signed, projects begin

6. Forms and guidance

6.1 Expression of interest

• first stage in the process​
• all applicants must submit an EoI​
• summary of your project - what is it you are proposing?
• deadline is 8 May 2024 for this competition call

6.2 Key points for the EoI

• 5 targeted technologies at TRL 4-6
• choice of route at EoI will have match-funding implications
• match-funding rates for national grants are higher if your proposal is collaborative
• read all the guidance before completing the EoI

6.3 General application form

• application form
• annexes A to G
• higher level of detail required
• to be completed in the 6-week period from mid-May until the end of June

6.4 Criteria

All applications are considered under 7 assessment criteria​:

• business case and route to market
• disruptive technology
• catalysing investment
• innovation
• market readiness
• project management
• quality of team and proposal

All applications are considered in competition with others received.

Thank you

Contact: C-LEO@ukspaceagency.gov.uk

EoI deadline: Wednesday 8 May 2024

Networking event: Friday 26 April 2024