ENTREPRENEURIAL SPACE COMPANIES: LESSONS LEARNED FROM THOSE THAT HAVE SURVIVED AND THRIVED

摘要

The unique nature of entrepreneurial space companies is discussed through a close look at the life cycle of three entrepreneurial space companies that have succeeded. Common elements during the company's growth are identified including non-equity funded startup, a relatively short period to break-even followed by a multi-year period of subsistence, and finally a period of substantial growth as a result of a "catalytic contract event". The history of the companies is then discussed along with the unique requirements of these companies during formation and growth. Elements of an effective entrepreneurial space company incubator are thereby presented including support funding for initial startup, physical space, access to aerospace manufacturing infrastructure, low cost labor through University partnerships and partnership with successful space entrepreneur mentors. It is also observed that the sweat equity element of entrepreneurial space company startup may be a key element of success.