AUSTIN (KXAN) — Four proposed projects have been approved by the Texas Space Commission board of directors, totaling $21.5 million in grants, according to a press release.
The grant, called the Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund (SEARF), applies to businesses and nonprofits looking to develop the Texas space industry.
“[It] is a milestone day for us as we begin the process of awarding grants. Thank you to the Board and staff for your dedication to getting this process established and your diligence in doing it right.” said Gwen Griffin, chair of the TSC board in a press release.
List of approved projects include:
- The Borderplex Alliance, El Paso – $19,758,376*
- El Paso County, El Paso – $800,000*
- Concho Valley Council of Governments, San Angelo – $500,000*
- South Plains Assoc. of Governments, Lubbock – $500,000*
* Amount requested
The approval comes after the TSC published an application online for its SEARF grant program. The deadline to submit applications was January 21, 2025, according to the same press release.
“The four awards approved will support companies in Texas to partner with the U.S. Space Force, assess the feasibility of an aerospace corridor between El Paso and Midland, and understand how various regions in Texas can best engage with the burgeoning space economy,” said Griffin.
The process of awarding grants will continue, as the appropriations for the SEARF program is $150 million.
“With governing rules in place, each Board member is working through all of the compliant applications as quickly as possible. We know applicants are anxious to see the Commission increase its cadence of awards,” said Norman Garza Jr., TSC executive director.
The TSC board will consider more grant applications on Feb. 10 and Feb. 28.
