ESA opened its Industry Space Days on 16 September 2026 with a focus on how small and medium enterprises are shaping the commercial space sector. Director General Josef Aschbacher opened the event, followed by a session on European SME contributions to innovation, competitiveness and growth. Panelists included representatives from AAC Clyde Space, T4i, HPS GmbH and other firms discussing pathways for growth capital and joint commercialisation initiatives.

The agenda featured a supplier awards ceremony recognizing industrial partners, alongside networking sessions for stakeholders. Subsequent days expanded on themes such as sustainable space practices, artificial intelligence applications and next-generation propulsion systems. Sessions covered topics ranging from Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) capabilities to optical communications for 5G/6G networks, with presentations from companies including Safran, Airbus and Tyvak International.

Day two highlighted sustainability efforts, including clean manufacturing processes and circular economy approaches. Discussions addressed life cycle assessments for space projects and emerging standards for satellite operations. The event concluded with presentations on technology transfer initiatives, including collaborations between ESA and textile industries, and sessions on industrialising space components through additive manufacturing and modular design.

Throughout the conference, ESA emphasized partnerships with commercial entities and outlined frameworks for supporting startups through funding mechanisms and technical resources. The gathering served as a platform for sharing advancements in space technology while underscoring the agency's role in fostering industrial growth within the sector.