Space Accelerators Programme Launched Muscat, 9 Jul (ONA) — The Ministry of Transport,
Communications and Information Technology today launched a project titled “Space
Accelerators Programme”. The project aims to enable local startups to develop space
solutions and services, promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the space
sector and furnish an stimulating environment for investment in advanced
technologies.

The launch of the project highlights the Ministry’s approach to implement the policy of economic diversification and inspire national capacities to transfer and localize space technologies through
national establishments. The one-year programme will be implemented by Al Akqaa
Space and Technology Company, in cooperation with Exotopic company, a British firm
specialized in accelerator programmes.

The project also aims to train the personnel of 10 local startups in space
sector practices, develop prototypes or commercially viable technical
solutions, enhance national skills in space innovation and establish a (local-global) support
network for space entrepreneurship.

Dr. Saud Humaid Al Shuaili, Director General of Policy and
Governance (Head of the National Space Programme at the Ministry of Transport,
Communications and Information Technology), said that the project provides an
integrated environment featuring technical guidance, entrepreneurial training
and access to a network of partners and experts.

He added that the overall objective is to establish a national business environment geared towards innovation in high-value space
industries.

Al Shuaili pointed out that the project contributes to developing
a competitive environment for offering innovative solutions. As part of the plan, the top
three companies will receive awards for initiating sustainable activities that
support the space sector’s strategic approach.

The programme will focus on a number of activities in the
space industry, including communications, observation of the Earth, geospatial
analytics, navigation, drones, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine
learning, advanced computing, data storage, the Internet of Things and
spacecraft simulation environments, in addition to accelerating the growth of
startups and supporting innovation in new technologies in the space sector.

— Ends/Bishara/AH