Kennedy Space Center, Fla. – September 22, 2026 -- The International Space Station National Laboratory's Orbital Edge Accelerator has expanded its second-year cohort to eight startups, up from six in 2025, while raising available per-startup funding to a range of $500,000 to $750,000, up from a prior cap of $500,000.
Investment partners drive higher funding ceiling for space startups
A network of global investment partners -- CIRI, Context Ventures, Draper Associates, Draper University, E2MC, and Stellar Ventures -- backed the increased capital pool, according to the ISS National Lab. The expanded funding and cohort size reflect strengthened investor engagement in space-enabled technology ventures targeting low Earth orbit.
Boeing to award $100,000 non-dilutive prize as presenting sponsor
Boeing, serving as the program's presenting sponsor, will grant one cohort participant the Technology in Space Prize, consisting of $100,000 in non-dilutive funding. Corporate sponsor Fenwick and event sponsors Aegis Aerospace Inc., BAE Systems, Greenberg Traurig, and J.P. Morgan are connecting startups with leaders across the space, technology, business, and financial sectors.
Flight sponsors expand access to in-space testing opportunities
Exotrail, Loft Orbital, and Rogue Space Systems Corporation have committed to providing complimentary or discounted flight opportunities for selected Orbital Edge startups, which may also support payload and hardware development activities. These commitments are intended to lower barriers to entry for in-space demonstrations.
Google for Startups Cloud program adds up to $200,000 in credits
Cohort members also gain access to the Google for Startups Cloud program, which provides up to $200,000 in cloud credits over two years.
ISS National Lab Chief Economist Sven Eenmaa said Orbital Edge is designed to convert startup innovation in space into commercial outcomes by leveraging private capital and industry partnerships. He said the combined support from investors, sponsors, and industry collaborators gives entrepreneurs access to expertise, resources, and connections needed to grow within the space economy.
Cohort startups to present spaceflight projects at December Demo Day
Through mentorship and direct engagement with investors and industry experts, the eight startups are refining plans to use the space environment to validate technologies and business strategies. The program will culminate in a Demo Day event in San Francisco this December, where each startup will present its planned spaceflight project.