Space firms blast off to US bootcamp

Ten NSW space technology companies will be launched into an intensive bootcamp learning experience in the United States with the support of the state Government.

The 10 companies will attend the “Austrade Landing Pad” bootcamp program in San Francisco, with the NSW government covering flight and accommodation costs of up to $10,000 per company.

The bootcamp, will be held over five days from 27 August, will introduce early stage NSW businesses to the highly developed San Francisco space industry ecosystem.

Australia’s first astronaut and NSW Space Industry Ambassador, Dr Paul Scully-Power AM said government support of the bootcamp program was one of a number of key initiatives to help the space economy thrive.

“NSW is home to 41 per cent of Australian space businesses, and is an Australian leader in the space industry. This is a fantastic opportunity for our best start-ups to learn from world leaders in space in the United States,” Dr Scully-Power said.

“NSW is also bidding for the headquarters of the Commonwealth’s new Australian Space Agency, and presents a compelling choice.”

“NSW is already the headquarters for Australia’s first space incubator and the state is working with 26 space education and research departments in eight universities.

“We are working to build an Aerospace and Defence Industries Precinct in the Western Sydney Aerotropolis, a NSW aerospace industry development strategy is being developed, and we have the nation’s biggest start-up industry and the new Sydney Startup Hub.

The bootcamp program will include mentoring and business development from established US start-up businesses, networking and partnership opportunities, guidance on doing business in the US, and information on the industry’s funding environment.