Jon Hulks
Space Ecosystem Development Manager, UK Space Agency
With world-leading capabilities in satellite manufacturing, payload development, space data services and connectivity, the nation is set to become the first in Europe to launch a satellite into orbit.
Unlike traditional industries clustered around a handful of locations, UK space expertise is distributed across every nation and region. This geographic diversity brings unique opportunities and challenges. Organisations face different needs depending on the location, composition and density of their local space sector.
Space clusters drive opportunity
To meet these unique needs and nurture growth — whether that’s breaking into new markets or forging partnerships, overcoming skills shortages or accessing testing facilities and infrastructure — the UK Space Agency works closely with local partners and invests in tailored initiatives.
At the heart of this approach are the UK’s ‘Space Clusters’ — local innovation hubs where businesses, researchers and investors come together. Led by dedicated teams, these clusters provide business advice, technical support and facilitate new partnership opportunities. They align local strengths with national priorities and create compelling cases for inward investment. For anyone interested in the space sector, engaging with your local cluster is essential.
The UK Space Agency works
closely with local partners and
invests in tailored initiatives.
Infrastructure investment as a key pillar
The Space Clusters Infrastructure Fund invests in R&D infrastructure aligned to local strengths. This allows space companies to pursue larger, more significant commercial opportunities. Meanwhile, the UK Space Agency Accelerator supports early-stage companies to scale and commercialise their innovations, offering tailored support in business development, technical validation and investment readiness.
Space sector fuels growth
Antonia Yendell, Head of Space Ecosystem Development at the UK Space Agency, says: “This thriving and connected ecosystem, underpinned by a network of space clusters and range of support programmes, brings the whole of the UK space sector together and equips it with the tools it needs to grow. The supportive environment sets the UK apart on the world stage, representing a competitive international advantage.
“By being able to rapidly access new partners, wherever they are in the country, drive innovation, unlock new commercial opportunities and build consortia that can deliver capabilities critical to the UK’s broader economy, the UK’s national space ecosystem is key to delivering our economic growth ambitions.”
