Deadline Date: November 30, 2025
The European Space Agency (ESA), in collaboration with GSMA Foundry, is now inviting innovators to apply for its 2025 innovation challenges designed to drive integration between satellite and terrestrial networks.
These challenges include three core innovation areas: advancing direct-to-device (D2D) communications, fostering 6G innovation, establishing 5G/6G hybrid testing hubs, and integrating fixed and mobile network infrastructures.
Applicants who are successful can access substantial funding, starting at a co-funding minimum of €500,000, and work alongside leading organisations in both the telecom and space sectors. This is a unique chance to contribute to bridging the digital divide and shaping the future of global connectivity. Teams are encouraged to propose technically feasible, scalable solutions that align with international standards like 3GPP and offer clear pathways to commercialisation. Projects started before the end of 2025 may also be showcased at MWC 2026.
The first challenge aims to enable standard mobile devices to connect directly to satellites, without the need for intermediary ground infrastructure—a solution that could expand coverage to remote areas and strengthen IoT applications in agriculture, logistics, and disaster response.
The second challenge focuses on early-stage 6G technology that integrates satellite systems with terrestrial networks, targeting use cases like ultra-low latency communications, edge intelligence, industrial IoT, and real-time applications.
The third challenge invites proposals to build hybrid testing hubs that combine terrestrial and satellite networks. These hubs are expected to become innovation centers where academia, industry, and policymakers can test and develop next-generation connectivity solutions.
To apply, interested organisations must submit expressions of interest by November 30, 2025, and must be legally based in one of the eligible countries, including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, or the UK.
This initiative not only opens up new funding and collaboration opportunities, but also brings selected projects into the spotlight at major industry events, offering a powerful platform for innovators shaping the convergence of satellite and terrestrial networks.
For more information, visit GSMA.
