Industry, Energy, and Mining Councilor Jorge Paradela and Vice Counselor of University, Research, and Innovation Lorena Garrido have participated in the opening of New Space & Solutions in Seville, an international event where the space and satellite industry come together to provide solutions to citizens. They highlighted the commitment of the Andalusian Government to innovation, digitization, and industrial modernization in the aerospace sector, with a budget of over 120 million by 2025 through various public aid programs and initiatives, aiming to continue contributing to transforming the Andalusian economy.
During the opening of this event, taking place at PCT Cartuja until March 21, the goal is to showcase leading national companies, multinational corporations, universities, institutions, and experts working to position the Andalusian aerospace industry at the forefront globally. The Industry, Energy, and Mining Councilor stated, «Space is a driver of progress; the aerospace industry is experiencing a stimulating period full of opportunities, especially in Andalusia, with double-digit annual growth in revenue and employment.»
To solidify Andalusia’s position as a reference in the aerospace sector, the Andalusian Government is implementing a clear roadmap through the Aerospace Strategy focused on promoting talent, innovation, disruptive technologies, and strengthening value chains. «We want Andalusia not only to participate in the New Space revolution but also to be a key player in high-impact space projects.»
Various incentive calls and programs promoting digitization, industrial modernization, and the development of high-value sectors have been launched to achieve this vision. «Our goal is clear: to build a strong business ecosystem capable of competing globally and generating opportunities.»
The Councilor emphasized that the space sector is rapidly expanding, driven by technological development, the race for sovereignty in telecommunications, and the growth of New Space. «According to TEDAE estimates, the economic impact is undeniable: every euro invested in space generates a threefold return.» Space drives R&D, strengthens industry, promotes skilled employment, and bridges the gap between industry and academia.
«Space represents one of the best industrial opportunities currently available for Andalusia, with strategic investments, support from the regional government to companies, and a future vision aligned between administrations and the sector,» he concluded.
Vice Counselor of University, Research, and Innovation highlighted the significance of New Space & Solutions landing in a region with a well-established aerospace tradition. According to data from the Andalusia Aerospace Cluster, this sector in Andalusia generates over 14,400 jobs and represents 1.2% of the regional GDP. «It is crucial that the future of the sector is addressed from here, a segment that now invoices almost three times more than fifteen years ago, generates twice as much employment as a decade ago, and leads Andalusian exports.»
Over 72 million to promote innovation
The University Council supports innovation in this area with over 72 million through projects like SpaceInnova Andalucía, a Public Procurement of Innovation (PPI) program with 20 million from FEDER funds. A new market consultation has recently been conducted, and support is provided to the University of Seville for the construction of the Center for Innovation in Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Urban Air Mobility, with 20 million from the Andalusia FEDER Program 2021-2027. The government also participates in the Center for Unmanned Aircraft Experimentation and Certification (CEUS) in Moguer (Huelva), with 17 million allocated.
Lorena Garrido also mentioned that the regulatory bases are already published to encourage new pathways in the development of aircraft that contribute to reducing noise and pollution. An amount of 15 million from FEDER funds will be allocated in line with the Clean Aviation initiative. Additionally, the aerospace sector can access incentives from innovation clusters, worth 10 million, and those aimed at innovating the business fabric, with 11.4 million, under the ‘InnovAndalucía’ initiative, which includes aid totaling 59 million from FEDER funds to promote business and technological innovation.
Finally, the University Vice Counselor expressed satisfaction that this event has placed research at the forefront, with researchers from various centers, universities, and academic institutions presenting their findings on the space situation and benefits. She highlighted the presence of the Spanish Space Agency in Seville, which has strengthened Andalusia’s potential in this sector, making it a center for space testing and decision-making.