BWI Joins ESA BIC Sud France: Business Incubation Centre in the Space Sector

BWI has officially joined ESA BIC Sud France, an initiative supporting innovative startups connected to the space sector. Find out what it means for BWI.

We are thrilled to announce that BWI has officially joined ESA BIC Sud France, the Business Incubation Centre (BIC) that supports young, innovative startups connected to the space sector. This initiative aims to foster the development of startups, guiding them and supporting them through the crucial early stages of their functioning until becoming commercially viable businesses. Once the incubation process is completed, former incubees join an extensive alumni network of more than 2000 companies, continuing to benefit from the ESA BIC community’s resources and connections.

About ESA BIC Sud

ESA BIC Sud was established more than a decade ago, in 2013, holding the title of the first incubator of the European Space Agency (ESA) in France. It covers the southern regions of France, including Nouvelle-Aquitaine, Occitanie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. 

ESA BIC Sud France is a consortium coordinated by the Aerospace Valley Competitiveness Cluster in partnership with the French space agency (CNES) and the SAFE Competitiveness Cluster. Additionally, the consortium comprises seven incubators. Furthermore, ESA BIC Sud France operates closely with the second ESA BIC in Northern France, equally as an extensive European spatial innovation network of 30+ ESA BICs.

To this date, it has accompanied an impressive repertoire of 140+ startups that were able to further develop their activities. The diverse activities linking startups to the space sector include technology transfer, earth observation, navigation, NewSpace initiatives, and telecommunications. Moreover, a notable percentage of the startups involved in the programme, 88%, continue to be operational.

What does it mean for BWI?

One of the data sources for BWI’s hydrological model is earth observation data. Additionally, satellites offer the most effective means to measure global surface water levels.

BWI is grateful to be among 20 new companies that join the network yearly in order to begin their 12 to 24-month-long incubation process with ESA BIC France.

The multifaceted support associated with BWI becoming one of the incubated startups of 2024 includes:

  • customised technical and business support
  • enhanced visibility at national and European levels
  • various financial resources such as a grant, advice on financing, and access to ESA BIC’s investors
  • information-rich webinars and dedicated events

Nevertheless, BWI joining ESA BIC Sud France means more than the above-listed comprehensive support or even a recognised label. It provides invaluable expertise in technical and business matters, along with access to a vibrant community that offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and innovation.

BWI is proud to be a part of this esteemed network and looks forward to accelerating its innovations in the space sector.