Space Florida Announces Launch of Florida University Space Research Consortium

EXPLORATION PARK, Fla.—November 7, 2024—Today, Space Florida’s Board of Directors designated the Florida University Space Research Consortium, as the state’s official space research entity, which will facilitate the awarding of NASA research grants in partnership with Kennedy Space Center.

The University of Florida (UF), the University of Central Florida (UCF), and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), formally requested that the Board designate the consortium as the official research entity. This partnership among Florida’s leading space research and higher education institutions will fuel innovative research and maintain Florida’s position as a leader in national space policy and space technology research initiatives. Space Florida’s support will provide crucial backing as the consortium collaborates on advanced projects with both NASA and Florida’s private sector, strengthening the state’s aerospace ecosystem.

As the only state with a university consortium affiliated with one of NASA’s centers, Florida is leveraging the unique strengths of the top space technology educational institutions to amplify research capabilities, attract a wealth of new investments, and maintain the state’s position as a national leader in the fast-growing space economy.

“The launch of the Florida University Space Research Consortium is a significant milestone for our state’s aerospace sector,” said Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez. “Florida has a world-class education system, and these three institutions excel at providing the talent and workforce the aerospace industry will need to continue growing and innovating. This collaboration between the University of Florida, the University of Central Florida, and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University reflects our joint commitment to advancing Florida’s position as a global leader in the aerospace industry for the benefit of our state and nation.”  

Rob Long, president and CEO of Space Florida added, “The research developed through this consortium could help attract more high-value projects to the state, giving Florida a significant advantage in the development of the aerospace economy and enabling us to shape the future of commerce.”

“By leveraging the unique strengths of our institutions, we can advance innovative research that not only reinforces Florida's status as a leader in aerospace but also empowers the next generation to excel in this critical industry,” said Dr. Kent Fuchs, interim president of the University of Florida.  

Dr. Alexander N. Cartwright, president of the University of Central Florida added, “Through this partnership, we look forward to tackling complex challenges in space technology and research while empowering our Knights to develop the skills necessary to thrive in the dynamic aerospace landscape.”

“Opportunities within the growing space science and technology ecosystems are highly competitive and continue to evolve. This collaboration between NASA Kennedy Space Center, state institutions of higher education, and the private sector will help to ensure that Florida remains unmatched in space-related research and workforce development,” said Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D.

With a collective goal to formalize a long-term partnership with NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, the consortium promises to generate unique opportunities for Florida students and researchers while enhancing the space science ecosystem through joint scientific, technical, and workforce initiatives.

In time, the consortium will broaden its membership to include other Florida universities that specialize in space-related research, fostering collaboration across scientific disciplines and meeting the needs of Florida’s rapidly growing aerospace sector.

This consortium marks a new chapter for Florida’s space industry, one that reflects the state’s partnership with NASA and the strategic investments made by Space Florida to build a robust aerospace commerce ecosystem.

### 

Media Contact 
Alayna Curry, APR 
acurry@spaceflorida.gov

About Space Florida 
Space Florida is where leading aerospace companies get everything they need to see their new ideas take off. As the state’s independent aerospace finance and development authority, Space Florida brings a mix of unrivaled experience, unmatched financial tools, and unbeatable location to the table by providing critical business financing opportunities for the aerospace industry, managing infrastructure investment in the state’s spaceport system, and facilitating research and development, workforce, education, and investment programs.  

‍