Advanced Research + Invention Agency (ARIA): Enduring Atmospheric Platforms – Concept papers

Please note: an applicant can submit a full proposal by April 2nd, without submitting a concept paper, yet on
average, 64% of applicants awarded funding submitted concept papers.
This program addresses the challenge of achieving ubiquitous, resilient connectivity by establishing a regionally scalable, high-performance alternative to orbital systems. Success enables low-cost, direct-to-device communications that current Low
Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations struggle to support practically, creating a UK-led,
sovereign capability in advanced communications infrastructure.
Applications invited from interdisciplinary teams that bridge fields such as aerospace engineering, advanced materials, energy generation, energy storage, and autonomy.
Funding: overall budget of £5M, individual projects are expected to receive multi-million-pound awards—often in the range of £1–5 million per project, depending on complexity and deliverables for max 3.5 years.
* Primary focus is on funding those who are based in the UK. However, funding will be awarded to organizations outside the UK if we believe it can boost the net impact of a program in the UK. In these instances, one must outline your proposed plans or commitments that will contribute to the program in the UK within the project’s duration
https://www.aria.org.uk/opportunity-spaces/scoping-our-planet/enduring-atmospheric-platforms/
Enduring Atmospheric Platforms Program FAQ + Lightning Talk webinar will be held on Dec 15, 2025 04:00 PM, for registration: https://eu01web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DpbO-cBrRSuJ8rrvSPdIZw#/registration