Institutional funding remains a massive catalyst for space innovation, often steering the direction of commercial R&D. Here, we analyze how public purses and national policy goals are actively shaping the technological roadmap of the European smallsat industry. The discussion will highlight the delicate balance between pursuing state-sponsored milestones and maintaining commercial viability.
Public Purses & Policy Goals: How Institutional Funding is Steering Innovation
Date: May 27, 2026Time: 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm
Reid Whitten
London Partner
SheppardReid Whitten, London Partner, Sheppard
Sabrina Alam
Space Lead, SnT Technology Transfer Office
University of LuxembourgSabrina Alam, Space Lead, SnT Technology Transfer Office, University of Luxembourg
Dr. Gianluigi Baldesi
Head of Ventures and Financing Office
European Space Agency – ESADr. Gianluigi Baldesi, Head of Ventures and Financing Office, European Space Agency – ESA
Anders Bohlin
Lead Economist – Digital Infrastructure
European Investment Bank – EIBAnders Bohlin, Lead Economist – Digital Infrastructure, European Investment Bank – EIB
Paul Thomas
Managing Director – Technology
AccenturePaul Thomas, Managing Director – Technology, Accenture