Sydney’s National Space Industry Hub, operated by Cicada Innovations, is expanding to include Defence and aerospace ventures to meet the rising demand for dual-use technologies. Backed by a $2.1 million NSW government grant, the hub has nurtured startups like Spiral Blue, Deneb, and Aquilla, which are gaining traction in commercial markets, securing funding, and creating jobs. Cicada’s CEO, Sally-Ann Williams, emphasized the hub’s significant return on investment, citing the early success of its graduates.
The hub now offers three key programs: Elevate, focusing on commercialisation and idea validation; Fast Start, targeting spinouts or ventures exploring new markets; and a new customer discovery program that helps participants identify opportunities across sectors like Defence and civil tech.
Investment NSW’s Rebecca McPhee lauded the hub’s achievements, including generating $72 million in revenue and creating 160 jobs. Despite its success, the hub faces uncertainty amid a government review of the state’s space industry strategy.
This initiative underscores the critical role of early-stage support in fostering Australia’s emerging space sector.
Explore the full article on the InnovationAus to dive deeper into the National Space Industry Hub’s impact and future.
