Go Further, Faster in Space R&D: ISS National Lab Webinar Unlocks Funding & Space Access for Startups

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER (FL), April 29, 2026 – An informational webinar will be held on Tuesday, May 5, at 1 p.m. (EDT), for founders interested in learning more about—and applying to—the Orbital Edge Accelerator program. The virtual session will walk through the key elements of the Orbital Edge Accelerator, including the program’s mission, structure, funding partners, mentorship model, application process, and resources available to participating startups. Founders will also gain insight into how the program is designed to support early-stage teams building innovative solutions at the intersection of space, aerospace, and advanced technologies.

The Orbital Edge Accelerator program provides unrivaled resources of $500,000 to $750,000 for ambitious startups through significant venture capital investment and an opportunity to test and develop technologies on the ISSInternational Space Station and other low Earth orbit(Abbreviation: LEO) The orbit around the Earth that extends up to an altitude of 2,000 km (1,200 miles) from Earth’s surface. The International Space Station’s orbit is in LEO, at an altitude of approximately 250 miles. platforms. Selected participants will also be eligible to compete for the Boeing-sponsored Technology in Space PrizeA prize that provides grant funding for business startups participating in the MassChallenge startup accelerator program to conduct innovative research and technology development utilizing the ISS National Lab. The prize is funded by the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space, which manages the ISS National Lab, and Boeing., which includes up to $100,000 in non-dilutive funding. Applicants choose from two distinct tracks based on the areas of technology innovation and business maturity:

• The Sentinel Track seeks early-stage startups developing space technologies with dual-use potential.
• The Disrupt Track seeks pre-seed and seed stage startups with a focus on space biotechnology and advanced materials, including in-space manufacturing and drug development.

Startups exploring acceleration, strategic partnerships, and investor readiness are encouraged to register and attend the webinar to determine whether the program is the right fit for their growth goals. The deadline to submit a concept application is May 26, 2026.

In addition, founders are encouraged to register for the in-person networking reception in San Mateo, California, on May 7, where they can connect with fellow founders, program leaders, and members of the broader innovation ecosystem.

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