Maldives Launches $50M Space Fund, Aims to Become Global Player
The Maldives is making waves in the global space scene, with ambitious plans to establish a space agency and raise $50 million for a pioneering fund. The Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO) is already working on projects like a ground station pilot and low Earth orbit satellites for marine conservation and illegal fishing detection. The country hopes to leverage its equatorial position for further space investments.
Close to $5 million in pre-commitments has already been secured from Middle Eastern family offices and space agencies, demonstrating international interest in the Maldives' space endeavours. The Maldives recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Axiom and is nearing an agreement with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to expand its space agency. The Maldives Space Fund (MSF) will structure investments across infrastructure, applications and analytics, and frontier innovation. Based in the United Arab Emirates for regulatory oversight, MSF targets a 2027 funding deadline.
The Maldives aims to set a precedent for how smaller states can use space to strengthen their domestic capabilities. The $50 million fund, representing an initial phase, will support MSRO's current priorities and enable growth. Additionally, the fund aims to support developing states facing climate and security challenges, positioning the Maldives as a leader in space cooperation.
With significant pre-commitments secured and strategic partnerships in the pipeline, the Maldives is poised to become a key player in the global space scene. The country's ambitious plans for a space agency and a $50 million fund demonstrate a commitment to leveraging space for domestic and international benefit. As the Maldives continues to develop its space capabilities, it sets an example for other small states looking to harness the power of space.
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