A regional organization has launched a new competitive funding opportunity designed to boost aerospace and related technologies on the Central Coast.
Boasting $525,000, the Space Vandenberg Innovation Fund will provide multiple awards, according to REACH, a regional economic development coalition
“We are excited to launch this new funding opportunity through Space Vandenberg to support the innovators and companies building the future of space and aerospace on the Central Coast,” said Melissa James, REACH president and chief executive officer.
“By investing in cutting-edge technologies and the people behind them, we’re accelerating industry growth and strengthening the region’s position as a hub for innovation. This is a pivotal opportunity to build on the Central Coast’s unique strengths and invest in the technologies that will drive our region’s economy forward,” James added.
The fund is administered through Space Vandenberg, led by REACH, in partnership with Cal Poly and UC Santa Barbara and supported through California Jobs First.
“The Space Vandenberg Innovation Fund exemplifies what California Jobs First is designed to achieve: creating new opportunities to strengthen California’s strategic sectors, accelerate innovation, and expand access to good-paying jobs,” said Danna Stroud from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
Eligible applicants include student teams, researchers, university-affiliated startups, entrepreneurs, technology commercialization projects and established companies.
Awards will have three tiers: up to $7,500, up to $50,000 and up to $100,000.
Applications are now open for the Space Vandenberg Innovation Fund with eligibility requirements and application information available by clicking here.
To be considered for the Space Vandenberg Innovation Fund, prospective applicants must submit a Letter of Intent through an online application form by 5 p.m. Oct. 2. Late submissions will not be considered.
Candidates will then be asked to submit their completed applications no later than 5 p.m. Oct. 16.
Award recipients are expected to be revealed in December 2026.
More information on the application process can be found by clicking here. For questions or assistance, email spacevandenbergadmin@reachcentralcoast.org with the subject line: Space Vandenberg Innovation Fund.