On 16–17 September, Europe’s space industry from start-up companies to large system integrators gathered at ESA–ESTEC in the Netherlands for ESA's Industry Space Days 2026. As the largest ESA-focused business-to-business (B2B) event, it has become a key date on the European space calendar.
In a record attendance, there were more than 3100 registered participants representing 1500 companies (200 more than in 2024) from ESA Member States, Cooperating States and Associate States.
More than 100 presentations were delivered in the three conference halls giving insights into ESA’s near and long-term activities and procurement needs across all ESA programmes.
The 'B2B zone' was the meeting place for almost 10 000 prescheduled and additional informal meetings to discuss potential opportunities and collaboration or to simply explore possibilities face-to-face.
An exhibition area about 240 exhibitors was a valuable way for companies to discover, discuss or showcase technologies and services, and make useful contacts.
A Technology tent dedicated to European technologies allowed companies with completed projects with ESA to pitch their solutions.
There were also panel discussions, workshops, and social networking opportunities and awards.
About the ISD
The ISD is organised by the 'SME section' in ESA’s Directorate of Controlling, Finance and Operational Procurement to foster cooperation within the entire space sector. Many companies attending this event have been before and are suppliers to ESA.
This event is held every two years and is intended to forge stronger business collaboration among space businesses in Europe and for ESA to communicate in person with Europe’s space community.