Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who can apply? Any organization developing solutions for space capability challenges: aerospace companies, cross-industry innovators, startups, universities, research labs, defense contractors, and technology providers.

Q: Can international companies apply? Yes, though solutions should be relevant to U.S. space capabilities and exportable. Submissions must comply with export control regulations and cannot contain classified or ITAR-restricted material.

Q: Do I need space heritage? No. We especially encourage cross-industry innovation from companies solving similar challenges in automotive, energy, medical, manufacturing, and other sectors.

Q: What qualifies as “development progress”? Working demonstrations, pilot tests, performance data, technical milestones, customer partnerships — anything showing you’re beyond the concept phase. Progress must be demonstrated between January 2024 and December 2025.

Q: Can my technology address multiple capability gaps? Yes. Select your primary focus but highlight broader applications. Multi-gap solutions may score higher due to wider impact potential.

Q: Are these gaps only for NASA missions? No. While based on NASA research, these needs span civil government, defense, and commercial space missions due to the dual-use nature of most space technologies.

Q: What if my solution doesn’t fit a listed category? Your solution should address at least one capability gap within our four strategic priority areas. If your innovation addresses a critical space need not explicitly listed, explain how it relates to broader mission requirements.

Q: How do I select the right application category? Choose based on your technology’s core function:

• Manufacturing & Materials — New processes, advanced materials, production innovations 
• Supply Chain & Logistics — Production technologies, management systems, inventory optimization 
• Enabling Technologies — Power, communications, sensors, computing, robotics, life support 
• Cross-Industry Solutions — Technologies adapted from other industries Breakthrough Projects — 
• Research advances, proof-of-concepts, one-time innovations

Q: What’s the application format and length? All applications are submitted through the online form. Content limits are specified for each section — approximately 2,500 words / 15,000 characters total across all narrative sections. You can upload supporting images, charts, and diagrams where indicated in the form.

Q: Can I save my application and return later? We recommend you write and save your draft in a Word document and then paste your responses in the online form.

Q: What file types can I upload for supporting materials? Images, charts, and diagrams may be uploaded in JPG, PNG, or PDF format. Maximum file size: 5 MB per file. Maximum 10 files total.

Q: How technical should my submission be? Technical enough to demonstrate credibility and merit, but accessible enough for smart generalists to understand your innovation’s impact.

Q: What should I NOT include? Applications become public records. Do NOT include:

• Proprietary information or trade secrets 
• Classified or ITAR-restricted material 
• Information subject to export control regulations 
• Assume all submitted content may be shared publicly

Q: Do I need a reference contact? Yes. Provide contact information for someone who can validate your work — such as a government agency representative, prime contractor partner, research institution collaborator, or pilot program participant.

Q: Can I submit multiple applications? Yes, one per distinct innovation. Each application should focus on a single primary solution.

Q: Can we apply if we’re already working with a prime contractor or government agency? Absolutely. Existing partnerships demonstrate market validation and strengthen your application.

Q: How are applications evaluated? Four weighted criteria assessed by expert reviewers:

• Problem-Solution Fit (20%) I
• Implementation Potential (40%) 
• Innovation Merit (30%) 
• Market Validation (10%)

Q: Who evaluates applications? An expert panel of leaders from the space industry, aerospace and defense, government, industry, academia, and the investment community.

Q: When will I know if I’m selected? Finalists notified April 2026. Winners announced on June 3, 2026, at Space Tech Expo USA in Anaheim.

Q: What do winners receive?

• Feature article in Aviation Week & Space Technology 
• Stage presentation at the 2 Space Tech Expo USA 
• Digital showcase across Aviation Week Network platforms (160,000+ reach) 
• Direct introductions to government agencies and prime contractors 
• Networking opportunities with industry decision-makers 
• Speaking opportunities at future Aviation Week events 
• Alumni network access

Q: What’s expected of winners? Participate in the awards ceremony, provide materials for promotional activities, and engage with networking and business development opportunities.

Q: What are the key dates?

• Applications open: November 2025 
• Final deadline: February 28, 2026 
• Finalists announced: April 2026 
• Winners announced: June 3, 2026, at Space Tech Expo USA, Anaheim, California

Q: What if I miss the deadline? Late submissions cannot be accepted due to evaluation timelines and awards ceremony scheduling.

Q: Where can I get help? Contact Mike McClary at mike.mcclary@aviationweek.com for questions about eligibility, requirements, or the application process.

Q: Where do I apply? Fill out the online application form here.

Q: Can I get feedback before submitting? While we cannot provide detailed pre-submission reviews, our team answers specific questions about requirements, eligibility, and format.

Q: How is my intellectual property protected? Applications become public records. Do not include proprietary information, trade secrets, or sensitive technical details. Focus on demonstrating impact and progress without revealing confidential information.

Q: Can I discuss my application publicly? Yes, you may discuss your participation. Avoid sharing evaluation details or insider information about the selection process.