About Startup Weekend: Space
We started Startup Weekend: Space because we saw a gap in the UK’s innovation ecosystem where aspiring space entrepreneurs had nowhere to turn their cosmic ideas into reality. Our goal is to be the definitive launchpad for the UK’s next generation of space-tech pioneers, creating a tangible pathway from concept to prototype within a single, dynamic weekend.
Our Mission: To Launch UK Space-Tech Ideas
We’re here to catalyse the UK’s commercial space sector by providing the tools, mentorship, and community for a 54-hour hackathon. We partner with organisations like the UK Space Agency and Satellite Applications Catapult to bridge the gap between concept and prototype. Our mission is built on two core pillars:
- Democratising Access to Space Tech: Our events break down barriers. We provide a platform where anyone—from students to seasoned engineers—can access expert mentors, data, and the initial network needed to start a space venture, levelling the playing field for UK innovation.
- Building the UK’s NewSpace Network: Beyond the weekend, we focus on fostering lasting connections. By bringing together participants, industry leaders, and investors, we’re actively weaving the collaborative fabric essential for the UK’s NewSpace sector to thrive globally.
Our Editorial & Community Focus
Our content and events are opinionated and informed, cutting through hype to focus on practical engineering, business models, and regulatory paths. We spotlight UK successes from companies like Skyrora and Space Forge. This focus manifests in our approach:
- Informed, No-Nonsense Guidance: We filter out the noise. Our editorial team provides clear, actionable insights on the realities of building a space startup, from securing funding to navigating regulations, helping teams build on solid ground.
- Conversations That Drive Real Progress: We curate discussions that matter. Whether at our events in London and Glasgow or in our online forums, we steer dialogue towards solving tangible challenges, celebrating pragmatic UK successes.
How Our Team Makes It Happen
Our core team blends ex-space agency engineers, startup founders, and community organisers who volunteer their time. We operate from hubs in London and Glasgow, ensuring nationwide reach and local impact. This is only possible because of our unique operational ethos:
- Volunteer-Powered & Passion-Fuelled: This is a labour of love. Our editorial team and mentors donate their expertise because they believe in the mission. This passion translates into a genuinely supportive environment for all participants.
- A Hands-On, ‘In-The-Room’ Approach: We are not remote observers. You’ll find our team actively involved throughout the event, from the initial brainstorming session to the final pitches, offering on-the-spot guidance and making crucial introductions.
We ultimately emphasise that our success is measured not in ticket sales, but in the viable companies and lasting collaborations formed at our events.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the typical space startup weekend price? Our ticket prices are designed to be accessible, covering food, drink, and venue costs for the 54-hour event. We often offer early-bird rates and student discounts. Specific pricing is listed on the event page for our upcoming gatherings.
- Why is this considered one of the best space startup weekends? Participants consistently highlight our unique blend of practical, UK-focused mentorship from leading industry partners and our tight-knit, collaborative community. It’s more than a hackathon; it’s a launchpad into the UK space ecosystem.
- Where can I find space startup weekend reviews? You can read testimonials and case studies from past participants directly on our website. These reviews often highlight the quality of mentorship, the value of the network built, and how the event served as a critical first step for their ventures.
- What should I bring to buy for a space startup weekend? All you need to bring is your laptop, charger, and any initial ideas you might have. We provide the workspace, WiFi, meals, and caffeine. Most importantly, bring an open mind and readiness to collaborate.