Visegrad Fund
Space for V4: Supporting space innovations and space economy in the Visegrad countries
Project overview
“Space for V4” aims to build a collaborative ecosystem for space innovation in the V4 countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia). This project focuses on connecting SMEs, research institutions, and startups to drive economic growth and technological advancements through joint efforts in space research. By creating a knowledge hub and strengthening links between research, development, and business, “Space for V4” seeks to support the development of advanced space technologies with applications across various sectors.
Objectives
Strengthen V4 space cluster cooperation to foster a collaborative innovation ecosystem. Promote cross-sector collaborations between space and traditional industries. Facilitate knowledge sharing, technology transfer, and joint research within the V4 region. Support startups and entrepreneurial ventures in the space sector.
Target groups
- Space Industry: Aerospace manufacturers, satellite companies, and space-tech startups
- Cross-Sector Industries: Engineering, automotive, telecom, healthcare, agriculture, and venture capital
- Academia: Universities and research institutions in space sciences
- Public & Education: STEM educators, students, and the general public
- Innovation Hubs: Technology transfer centers, accelerators, and clusters
Expected results
V4 Space Cluster Platform:
- Create an informal network connecting space industry stakeholders in V4.
- Develop an online platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Workshops and Conferences:
- Organize events to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration.
- Exploring opportunities for future project cooperation
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
Online Kick-off Meeting - 15.11.2024
During the online event, the experts will share insights into the partner institution's experience and projects, offering valuable perspectives on advancing the project’s objectives.
Watch kick off meeting here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e8gs7-59JW0
Monitoring and best practices (January 2025)
This activity aims to monitor key trends, identify stakeholders, supporters, and explore investment, collaboration, venture, and grant opportunities across each of the V4 countries. Emphasis will be placed on prioritizing the regional impact and sharing specific expertise and experience within the sector.
Online trainings (February - April 2025)
Each partner will conduct online training for V4 space cluster members, covering ESA BIC membership, ecosystem building, investment strategies, business growth, and STEM talent attraction, with real-world success stories.
Výťah.Conf 2025 (24.4.2025)
Výťah.Conf unites space enthusiasts to inspire entrepreneurs, startups, SMEs, public institutions, and academia. As Slovakia's only space-focused conference, it highlights space technology's economic potential and offers unique networking opportunities.
Publication of best practices (August 2025)
The joint publication will highlight V4 best practices in the space industry, covering satellite manufacturing, launch operations, Earth observation, and space education. It will also outline strategies for attracting private investment through tax incentives, incubators, and public-private partnerships.
INOFEST 2025 (September 2025)
As part of INOFEST, a dedicated side event will spotlight space innovations, where a selected expert will lead discussions with key stakeholders to explore collaborative opportunities and advancements in the sector.
Are you active in the space economy or engaged in research and development in this field?
Add your information to our database and enhance your visibility to potential partners from the V4 countries. Completing a short form will open new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
Download the “Ecosystem mapping” file in the “Download” section below, fill in your details, and send it to anna.caplovicova@inovato.sk.
Downloads
- Files related to this topic
CONTACTS
- Anna Čaplovičová
anna.caplovicova@inovato.sk - Tereza Mesárošová
tereza.mesarosova@inovato.sk
Partners
The project is co-financed by the Governments of Czechia, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia through Visegrad Grants from International Visegrad Fund. The mission of the fund is to advance ideas for sustainable regional cooperation in Central Europe. visegradfund.org
