South of Scotland Satellite Data Challenge for Natural Capital Enhancement

Are you an enterprise based in the South of Scotland looking to explore the area of Earth Observation? 

The South of Scotland is the world’s only identified Natural Capital Innovation Zone and is defined by the Scottish Government The Natural Capital Innovation Zone (NCIZ) is a nationally recognised region spanning Dumfries & Galloway and the Scottish Borders, established to accelerate solutions to the twin global challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change. Satellite Technology can, if applied correctly accelerate our ability to address these challenges.

The intention of this fund is to allow Earth Observation enterprises in Scotland to invest in technology to develop and evaluate innovative ideas with enterprise partners in the South and realise their potential.
Projects that focus on creating new opportunities in the Space Sector by way of demonstration, participation, training, or skills development are also encouraged.

I am interested, tell me the detail!

•The fund will provide a grant towards staffing costs and equipment for projects that combine innovation and address market needs or market failure in the region

•Projects must be completed by 1st March 2026

•Projects should evaluate and introduce innovative ideas for your enterprise that lead to new market opportunities, long term sustainability and inclusive growth ambitions

•The maximum grant available is up to £30,000

•No match funding is required

•Enterprises wishing to access the fund must operate within the South of Scotland and have an identified and accepted Earth Observation enterprise based in Scotland although we may consider and international partner if necessary

•Where an enterprise employs staff, it should be paying the Real Living Wage to all staff aged sixteen and over, including apprentices and will need to provide evidence of effective voice for staff and a Fair Work action plan

•Full criteria and eligibility (Criteria download PDF)

How do I apply?

Read the full criteria and eligibility to make sure you and your project fits before application for the fund. 

Express an interest by completing the enquiry form below and tell us a little bit about you and what you are proposing and include:

•An outline of the project idea and how it links to Satellite Data Challenge for Natural Capital Enhancement

•A breakdown of the identified costs to support the project

•The successful applicants will be notified no later than Monday 3rd November 2025

What happens after I apply?

After you compete the enquiry form below a member of the team at SOSE will be in touch to invite you to attend an online seminar, this will give you the chance to learn more about the fund and an opportunity for a Q&A session at the end.

If you are successful at the initial stage you will be invited to pitch your idea and submit your bid to our judging panel.

Demand is expected to be high and therefore not all projects will be able to proceed as the fund amount is limited.

SOSE grants are discretional and SOSE decision will be final.