Key Takeaways
- The European Space Agency (ESA) is hosting an SME Forum on June 8-9, 2026, aimed at gathering insights from small and medium enterprises.
- Two online preparatory meetings for SMEs will take place in April and May 2026 to discuss key industry issues.
- Input from these events will inform ESA’s future policies and initiatives, fostering dialogue between SMEs and the Agency.
Upcoming SME Forum at ESA
The European Space Agency (ESA) is inviting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and midcaps to participate in its annual SME Forum, scheduled for June 8-9, 2026, at ESA Headquarters in Paris. This event aims to gather vital feedback on industry topics affecting SMEs in the space sector. In preparation for the Forum, ESA is also hosting two online meetings—one on April 21, 2026, and another on May 21, 2026—where SMEs can share their insights and concerns.
To join the online sessions, companies should register through ESA’s Learning Hub, with a recommended representation from management level. Participation in at least one of the online meetings is required for those wishing to attend the in-person SME and Midcaps Days. The feedback from these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the agenda for the June event and will be presented by SME representatives to kick off important conversations.
The online preparations aim to open a dialogue on various challenges faced by SMEs in the space market, providing a platform for those unable to attend the Paris event to still voice their opinions. This year’s agenda will cover essential updates from the previous SME Forum in 2025, implications of the Bromo merger, and significant developments relevant to the industry, including outcomes from the ESA Ministerial Council (CM25).
Key topics for discussion during the April meeting include an introduction to ESA’s priorities, a briefing regarding the previous SME Forum, and the challenges in collaborating with ESA. Participants will also have an opportunity to address other pressing issues facing the space industry today.
The planned interactions and gathered feedback will ultimately contribute to the formulation of ESA’s future policies and approaches, ensuring that the voice of SMEs is adequately represented in discussions that influence the sector.
Companies interested in participating should register by the specified deadlines to ensure their contributions are included in this important initiative. This engagement not only supports dialogue between ESA and SMEs but also strengthens the overall ecosystem of the space industry.
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