Accelerator to prepare Israeli startups for NASA integration

Creation-Space, supporting deep space technological developments, introduces Israel's first accelerator for startups. Its aim: to integrate them into NASA's 'Artemis' program for lunar settlement in the coming years and later guidance on Mars. The program presents startups with a unique chance to join humanity's next big step, creating innovative solutions impacting our future on Earth and in space.

The 'EXPAND' accelerator targets early-stage startups in fields like robotics, materials, construction, food tech, and health. It teaches them how their developments can meet space mission demands while providing a platform for development and viability in the domestic market.

Registration opened on April 15th, with selected initiatives participating in a grand opening event in Mitzpe Ramon, Israel's Space and Stars City, a month and a half later. The accelerator, launched in partnership with the TECH-7 innovation community and supported by the Jewish National Fund USA and the American investment fund CreationsVC, offers mentoring and close business guidance from experts deeply familiar with the space industry. It also provides professional workshops equipping startups with tools for success and presentation to potential investors. The winning startup receives a scientific-technological grant totaling NIS 100,000.

"In Israel, known as the Startup Nation, there's immense, untapped potential to significantly contribute to the global breakthroughs of human potential beyond Earth's boundaries," explains Dr. Roee Naor, Creation-Space founder, who previously researched Mars geology at the Weizmann Institute and NASA. "Among other things, this involves developing technologies for building infrastructure and systems for space-oriented missions, and in the future, developing solutions for lunar settlement and Mars to ensure sustainable and meaningful human existence." Dr. Naor adds, "We see the EXPAND program as a mission, both for pushing the boundaries of human potential beyond Earth and for the sake of sustainable human life here on Earth. The accelerator may also create optimal solutions to tackle climate crisis-related problems, such as human health, smart construction, and sustainable resource utilization."

"At the end of the process, our goal is to lead startups to bring solutions to the challenges of space missions ten steps ahead," summarizes Dr. Naor. "With proper investment and professional guidance, we believe Israeli entrepreneurs can make a significant contribution, and I urge them to join us on this fascinating journey towards a new future." Creation-Space, backed by the American investment fund CreationsVC, began its full operation just half a year ago, already resulting in several investments in Israeli startup companies. Among them is Alumentry, a unique company developing innovative technology for precision aluminum component production on Earth and in space. To register for the accelerator: https://www.creation-space.com/accelerator