CN2i Inclusive Space Innovation Series - Show Me The Money! Understanding the Finances and Economy of Space

The event will commence with a presentation on the latest financial and commercial developments in the space ecosystem, designed to equip non-specialists with familiarity with the economy of the rapidly expanding space sector. Under the guidance of Dr Chiu, participants will be invited to brainstorm the development of a space adjacent business/social ventures (e.g. space-themed products by a baker) that may create new values and market opportunities. It will conclude with a presentation of ideas from the audience, and attendants will get the opportunity to vote for their favourite idea. Winner will be presented with a space prize in a modest concluding ceremony.

The IPO listing of SpaceX earlier this year has generated much fanfare. It prompted a historic valuation of over $2 trillion--the largest ever stock-market debut. It signals a marked departure from previous space endeavours, highlighting that the next stage of space innovation would be driven by commercial, rather than institutional actors. As space commercialization accelerates, we started to also witness increasing opportunities to advance inclusive space innovation with commercial space actors: Blue Origin launched the first wheelchair user to Space in 2025; and VAST, a commercial space station company, has in June signed a MoU with the UK Space Agency with the objective of sending the world's first parastronaut, John McFall, to Space.

Dr Chiu will present novel business models and economics that underpin recent space commercialization and acceleration (e.g. the direct B2C business-to-customers approach of Starlink--a new and uncommon model for historic satellite communications businesses). She will also survey novel space-adjucent economic ventures that drive the economy (e.g. space-themed tasting/dining experiences, the revival of speedmaster moonwatch by Omega). Participants will learn of new ways to engage with the space economy. They will be guided through an innovation process that could help them capture burgeoning value-creating opportunities inspired by Space Exploration.

This event is convened with the joint support of Durham University Business School (Management & Marketing), Durham City Town Hall, and Durham University Space Research Centre. 

Dr Nikita Chiu, Associate Professor in Space Innovation & Technology Governance 

Find out more: https://technologygovernance.webspace.durham.ac.uk/

Adults

Adult public audience: individuals and professionals with an interest to learn more about the finances and economy of Space

Book your place by emailing PI Dr Nikita SW Chiu at sze.w.chiu@durham.ac.uk 

RSVP by 30 Oct with dietary and accessibility requirements