Chicago leans on its strong manufacturing roots and a big science workforce, trying to stand out as a Midwest hub for space commerce. Thanks to its strategic location and solid financial infrastructure, new space ventures find support here, while established institutions keep building industry connections.
Chicago gives space businesses some real advantages with its central spot and solid infrastructure. The city acts as a transportation crossroads, with big railway and highway networks that link space companies to suppliers and customers all over the country.
The region boasts the third-largest science and engineering workforce in the U.S. That means space companies can easily find skilled folks in manufacturing, software, and aerospace engineering.
As a global financial center, Chicago pulls in investment capital for space ventures. Banks and venture capital firms here actually get complex tech investments and regularly fund space startups.
The manufacturing economy in Chicago and the Midwest helps with space hardware production. Companies can tap into precision manufacturing, materials suppliers, and strong quality control for making space components.
Operating costs here are way lower than in California or Florida. New companies save on office space, manufacturing, and salaries compared to the coasts.
Chicago’s space industry presence has picked up in recent years. At least eight space-related businesses have launched locally, creating a small but growing space commerce scene.
Key companies that started in Chicago include:
NewSpace Chicago came together to promote the Midwest for space industry growth. They host networking events and back space entrepreneurship with mentorship and business development programs.
The space business community here is still small but pretty active. Early business plan competitions didn’t draw huge crowds, so the industry’s still finding its feet in the region.
mHUB Chicago stands out as the main hub for space tech development in the city. This manufacturing innovation center focuses on “hard tech” startups working on physical materials and space technologies.
NewSpace Chicago runs out of mHUB and organizes programming for space entrepreneurs, investors, and students. The group educates locals about commercial space opportunities and links up industry professionals.
The Chicago Society for Space Studies is Illinois’ largest space advocacy organization. It’s also one of the oldest space groups in the country, promoting space exploration and sparking public interest in all things space.
Local universities pitch in with research and workforce development for the space industry. They provide engineering talent and run space-related research that helps commercial ventures.
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation connects Midwest aerospace companies, which leads to partnerships and shared resources that benefit Chicago space businesses.
NewSpace Chicago acts as the central force building up the Midwest’s commercial space industry. They create community, host regular events, and give direct support to space entrepreneurs.
The nonprofit connects space professionals and keeps pushing Chicago as a major hub for commercial space ventures.
NewSpace Chicago is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on making the Midwest a go-to spot for commercial space ventures. They bring together space entrepreneurs, professionals, investors, and students who are all about private companies in the space sector.
The group highlights Chicago’s natural strengths for space business. With nearly $610 billion in annual economic activity and a big financial sector, the city supports a large science and engineering workforce through top universities and research centers.
NewSpace Chicago welcomes all sorts of space-related businesses, not just aerospace. Members range from spacecraft builders to IT firms, aerospace fashion brands, and even advertising creatives. It’s a broad mix, but that fits the way many Earth-based technologies can scale up for space.
The organization keeps saying space is the future of industry. They point out projections that the space economy could hit $3 trillion in 30 years. Right now, space businesses already bring in billions through launch services, communications, weather monitoring, and GPS.
NewSpace Chicago runs monthly networking events at mHUB Chicago. These regular meetups give space industry professionals a place to connect and swap ideas.
The events pull together the regional space community and open doors for collaboration between different sectors.
People who show up get access to mentorship, career resources, and business development connections. These gatherings help both seasoned professionals and newcomers find their way in the commercial space sector.
Besides the monthly meetups, NewSpace Chicago also takes part in regional space conferences and summits. Executive Director David Hurst represents the group at events like Concordia University Wisconsin’s Strategic Space Summit, shining a light on Midwest space capabilities.
They focus on practical business connections rather than just theory. Members can get help with funding, partnerships, and market opportunities right here in the regional space scene.
NewSpace Chicago gives targeted support to space entrepreneurs building companies in the Midwest. Their mentorship programs connect new founders with experienced space industry pros.
Business development is a big part of the entrepreneurship support structure. NewSpace Chicago helps startups find resources, from funding connections to market guidance.
They support all sorts of space-related ventures, from traditional aerospace to companies working on space-scalable tech in biotech, nanotech, smart materials, and alternative energy.
NewSpace Chicago helps entrepreneurs see Chicago’s strengths for space business. The city’s transportation links, financial resources, and technical workforce all create a good environment for space ventures to grow. The organization connects new companies to these assets to speed up their development.
Chicago’s commercial space sector has seen fast growth, with at least eight new space-related businesses starting up in the past few years. The city brings together strong financial networks, manufacturing know-how, and top universities, creating a solid environment for space entrepreneurship.
Orbital Transports leads Chicago’s space startup scene. The company, under founder leadership, works on space logistics solutions.
They operate out of mHUB Chicago, a manufacturing innovation center that backs “hard tech” startups focused on physical materials and tech.
NewSpace Chicago acts as the main organizer for the region’s commercial space community. This nonprofit links up entrepreneurs, students, engineers, and investors interested in space ventures across the Midwest.
They welcome all sorts of professionals working on space-related and space-scalable projects. These businesses build technologies that solve problems on Earth and can adapt for space.
mHUB Chicago gives crucial infrastructure support for space startups. The facility offers resources designed for companies creating physical space tech and materials.
Local entrepreneurs work on everything from biotech and robotics to nanotech, smart materials, and alternative energy. These ventures tackle familiar space challenges like logistics, transport, construction, energy systems, and manufacturing.
Chicago’s space ventures focus on dual-use technologies that work both on Earth and in space. Companies here develop solutions for logistics, scheduling, transport, and resource extraction that can scale up for space.
Biotechnology and medicine startups build products for space health challenges but also serve medical needs on Earth. They work on life support, food production, and air and water purification.
Manufacturing and materials ventures create smart materials and nanotechnology solutions. Their work covers construction, manufacturing, and advanced materials for harsh space environments.
Energy and robotics companies design alternative energy systems and robots. These technologies handle power, automation, and remote operations—problems that matter both in space and on the ground.
Chicago’s financial sector also supports space finance and insurance ventures. These companies invent new business models for space commerce, crew transportation, and cargo services.
Chicago’s global financial reputation brings in a lot of venture investment for local space startups. The city’s venture capital networks help fund early-stage commercial space ventures.
NASA’s Commercial Orbital Transportation Services program has kicked off more competition and innovation among private companies. That shift gives Chicago startups a shot at developing cost-effective launch services and space tech.
Investors back companies working on crew and cargo transportation. Startups get funding to develop better launch services and logistics solutions.
The Midwest location means companies save money compared to the big coastal space hubs. Lower costs and strong manufacturing make Chicago a smart place to grow a space venture.
Growth is happening in space transportation, satellite services, and ground-based support systems. Companies benefit from the city’s engineering talent and close ties to major universities.
Private equity firms now target space-scalable ventures with clear paths to making money. These investments support tech development, manufacturing, and market expansion for Chicago space companies.
The space industry has shifted from government-run programs to fast-moving commercial enterprises. Private companies now push innovation and bring down costs across the board.
This change has opened up new opportunities for businesses and investors. Space feels more accessible than ever.
NewSpace marks a big change from the old model of aerospace contractors. Now, private companies focus on cutting costs and moving fast.
Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic lead the way. They use commercial strategies instead of waiting on government contracts.
Traditional space companies relied on government funding and slow development. NewSpace firms take more risks and use venture capital to speed up innovation.
The commercial space sector now makes up 78% of the global space economy, which hit $613 billion in 2024. That’s a huge shift—private companies really drive space development now.
NewSpace companies use reusable rockets, build smaller satellites, and develop products quickly. They focus on making space activities profitable, not just technically possible.
SpaceX pulled off 81 launches in the first half of 2025. That’s over half of the world’s 149 total launches in that period.
Satellite internet services are fueling much of the current space growth. SpaceX’s Starlink faces real competition from Amazon’s Kuiper and Eutelsat’s OneWeb, making broadband in space a hot market.
Earth observation satellites now deliver real-time data for disaster response and business. Private companies offer imaging services that governments and businesses depend on.
Space launch frequency has jumped, with launches happening every 28 hours in early 2025. That’s faster than last year’s record, showing strong commercial demand.
Manufacturing in space is starting to look promising. Companies are working on facilities to make fiber optics and pharmaceuticals in zero gravity.
Public-private partnerships help the government expand capabilities and cut costs. NASA funds commercial space stations and solar power research through private contractors.
The Department of Defense puts money into commercial space logistics and mobility. This spending pushes forward satellite tech and launch capabilities.
Reusable rocket technology has slashed launch costs by more than 90% compared to old-school expendable rockets. SpaceX flies its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy rockets back to Earth, then launches them again.
Small satellites—CubeSats—make space accessible for universities and small businesses. These tiny spacecraft cost thousands, not millions, to build and launch.
Advanced manufacturing like 3D printing lets companies prototype space components quickly. Private firms can test new designs in just months.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning now run satellite operations and crunch data faster than ever. Private space companies rely on these tools to manage huge constellations automatically.
New materials science brings lighter, stronger spacecraft parts. Carbon fiber composites and advanced alloys cut weight and bump up performance.
Private companies are building space-based internet networks that compete with ground systems. These constellations reach even the most remote or underserved spots.
Chicago’s space sector features companies working on advanced satellite servicing and on-orbit tech. The region draws on deep aerospace manufacturing roots and new partnerships between commercial firms and defense groups.
Satellite servicing is changing how operators keep space assets running and up to date—no need to launch replacements every time. Companies are building robotic tech that can refuel satellites, add sensors, or fix broken parts while the vehicles stay in orbit.
This kind of tech solves big industry headaches. Traditional satellites just run until they fail or become obsolete. Servicing can add years to their lives and even give them new tricks.
Most modern servicing missions go after geosynchronous satellites, parked 22,000 miles up. These birds handle pricey communications and military jobs, so extending their lives saves a fortune.
Robotic arms now handle delicate work in space. DARPA and the Naval Research Lab build specialized robots for these jobs. The arms must hit pinpoint accuracy to avoid wrecking expensive hardware.
Space servicing keeps orbital debris down by fixing or upgrading satellites instead of abandoning them. As low Earth orbit gets busier, this approach feels more crucial than ever.
A handful of Chicago-area companies are making moves in satellite servicing and related tech. CU Aerospace, down in Champaign, builds propulsion systems that help with satellite ops and servicing.
The region draws both big aerospace names and scrappy startups. Up in Wisconsin, Galactiv focuses on satellite servicing business models. Proteus Space manufactures small satellites that could use servicing down the road.
Chicago’s manufacturing scene supports component production for servicing vehicles. Local firms make sensors, comms systems, and mechanical parts needed for tricky orbital work.
Regional universities pitch in with research and workforce training. Their engineering programs churn out grads with robotics, space systems, and orbital mechanics know-how.
The Defense Innovation Unit brings together commercial satellite servicing companies and military needs. That opens the door for Chicago-area firms to join in on funded demo missions.
Satellite servicing is laying the groundwork for a bigger in-space economy. Early servicing capabilities will spark demand for other orbital services—think manufacturing, assembly, and logistics.
Commercial satellite constellations are fueling this demand. Companies with hundreds of satellites need affordable maintenance, not a steady stream of replacements. Servicing missions can upgrade entire fleets in one go.
Military space ops want satellites that last longer and get upgrades on the fly. The Space Force is investing in tech to keep assets mission-ready without always launching new hardware.
International markets are getting in on the action too. More countries and companies are flying satellites, and many would benefit from servicing. That’s a chance for US-based providers to serve global clients.
Space manufacturing and assembly will need the same robotic and rendezvous tech built for satellite servicing. Companies that master these skills will be ready for new markets—asteroid mining, lunar ops, you name it.
The space station industry is moving from government-run outposts to privately-owned orbital platforms. NASA’s Commercial LEO Destinations program is backing several companies to build stations that’ll take over for the International Space Station by 2030.
NASA plans to wind down the International Space Station in 2030. That’s opening the door for commercial players to launch and run their own orbital facilities.
The agency picked three companies for space station contracts. Axiom Space leads with Axiom Station. Starlab is a team-up between Nanoracks, Voyager Space, and Lockheed Martin. Blue Origin is building Orbital Reef with a bunch of partners.
These new stations won’t work like the ISS. Private companies will own them and sell services to NASA and others. NASA becomes a customer, not the landlord.
This switch cuts government spending and opens up access to more groups. Commercial stations can host multiple countries, research teams, and private clients at the same time.
Commercial stations need more than just NASA as customers to stay afloat. Companies are targeting government agencies, universities, pharma firms, and even space tourists.
Research and manufacturing are big money makers. Zero gravity lets companies run experiments you just can’t do on Earth. Pharma research and materials science could really take off.
Space tourism is another income stream. Wealthy folks are willing to pay millions for a trip to orbit. Commercial stations could host tourists for days or even weeks.
International customers make the market bigger. Countries without their own programs can buy station time for their astronauts or experiments. That brings in steady revenue from multiple governments.
Manufacturing in orbit might produce new materials and products. Zero gravity lets you make stuff with properties you just can’t get on Earth.
The Midwest is pitching in on commercial space stations through aerospace companies and research universities. Boeing, with its headquarters in Chicago, is involved in several commercial space projects.
Lockheed Martin is a big player in the Starlab project. They bring decades of spacecraft experience to the table, helping bridge the gap between old-school aerospace and new commercial efforts.
Regional universities support research and workforce training for space stations. They offer scientific expertise and help train people for commercial space jobs.
Chicago’s aerospace companies supply components and systems for orbital facilities. Their manufacturing know-how makes them valuable partners for space station projects.
The growing commercial space industry is opening new doors for Midwest companies. Their manufacturing chops and aerospace experience put them in a great spot for space station development.
Chicago space companies have to navigate a complicated maze of federal rules, IP laws, and new policy frameworks. Specialized legal expertise and proactive compliance are pretty much essential for any Midwest space venture.
Mudd Law stands out as a specialized legal firm for the commercial space sector, focusing on regulatory compliance and business formation. They know what Chicago space companies are up against when dealing with federal agencies like the FAA and FCC.
Space law practices here zero in on licensing for launches, satellite communications, and orbital debris mitigation. Companies need legal help to work through Commercial Space Launch Act requirements and get the right authorizations.
Key regulatory areas cover:
Legal firms that focus on space help Chicago companies set up joint ventures and negotiate government contracts. They also advise on protecting intellectual property tied to space tech.
Space tech companies struggle to protect intellectual property while following tough regulations. Patent applications for space inventions get bogged down with technical details and long waits.
Chicago space startups have to juggle trade secrets and required disclosures. The FAA demands technical info for launch licenses, which could expose proprietary designs to rivals.
Critical IP moves include:
Export controls add another layer. ITAR rules block sharing certain space tech with foreign nationals—even if they work for the same company. That limits hiring and international teamwork for Chicago firms.
Chicago space companies must stay compliant with several federal agencies and prep for new state-level rules. The regulatory landscape keeps shifting as commercial space activity grows outside the usual aerospace hotspots.
Main compliance needs include:
Illinois is starting to roll out state policies to boost the space industry while keeping the public safe. These new rules address spaceport development, workforce training, and tax breaks for space tech firms.
Companies also need to prep for new rules on space debris and spectrum management. The FCC recently tightened orbital debris requirements, demanding end-of-mission disposal plans. Chicago space firms have to stay nimble as these regulations evolve.
Chicago’s space business scene is catching the eye of venture capitalists, with big funds seeing Chicago as a rising commercial space hub. The funding mix includes private investment and government incentives, but space companies still face some tough challenges raising money.
Venture capital is fueling most space industry growth, making up 77% of investments in recent months. Investors are especially interested in Chicago-based companies working on launch services, satellites, and orbital infrastructure.
Chicago is drawing in multi-stage VCs willing to put billions into space ventures. As a growing tech hub, the city appeals to investors searching for the next big commercial space win.
Key investment targets:
Lower launch costs mean more opportunities for investors. When companies can reach orbit for less, VCs see better chances for solid returns.
Investors here like companies that can turn a profit fast with minimal startup capital. That’s crucial for surviving lean funding cycles.
Illinois offers tax breaks and grants to pull commercial space companies into Chicago. The state sees space businesses as high-growth drivers for jobs and innovation.
NewSpace Chicago markets the city as a top spot for new space ventures. They connect local companies with funding and government support.
Federal programs bring in NASA partnerships and Defense contracts. Chicago companies can tap these funding streams and keep their Midwest cost edge.
Private investors round out the mix with space-focused funds. These groups get the long timelines and big capital needs that come with commercial space.
Together, public and private funding helps Chicago space firms bridge the gap from early-stage to profitable operations.
Space companies deal with longer development cycles than most tech startups. Investors have to wait years for returns, so only certain funding sources are willing to take the plunge.
The capital-intensive nature of space business means big upfront spending on hardware, testing, and compliance. Chicago companies are up against established aerospace centers for that specialized cash.
Market swings impact space investment. When the economy tightens, investors get picky about funding ventures that don’t have quick revenue.
Technical risks make it even harder. Space companies must prove their tech works in tough conditions, which means lots of expensive testing before any money comes in.
Chicago space businesses tackle these hurdles by focusing on dual-use tech that serves both commercial and government clients. That strategy brings in multiple revenue streams and helps reduce investor risk.
Chicago’s space business scene really leans on partnerships—universities, government agencies, and private companies all play their part in building a solid talent pipeline for commercial spaceflight. The city’s educational programs and community outreach open doors for all kinds of folks to get into aerospace careers.
Chicago, like the rest of the country, struggles with a shortage of technical talent in the space industry. Local universities and technical colleges team up with space companies to shape curricula that actually fit what the industry needs right now.
The University of Chicago’s aerospace group gets students involved in hands-on engineering projects, so they’re ready for jobs in spacecraft design and operations. Students join interdisciplinary teams and build real systems used on actual missions.
Engineering programs in the city zero in on commercial spaceflight skills—propulsion systems, life support tech, and navigation, to name a few. Students pick up experience with the same tools and software they’ll see on the job.
Key technical areas include:
Organizations like mHUB Chicago give the science and engineering workforce a boost. mHUB opens up advanced equipment and provides mentorship for students working on space tech.
Community colleges run certification programs for technician roles. These shorter tracks help career changers break into the space field without needing a four-year degree.
Chicago universities work with NASA, Space Force, and commercial space companies on real research projects. These collaborations let students get their hands dirty while helping push space technology forward.
Faculty and students tackle practical problems that commercial space companies face—like making better spacecraft materials, improving life support, or streamlining launch procedures.
The University of Chicago works with aerospace companies to set up internships and co-op programs. Students get time at real space facilities, learning from seasoned engineers and technicians.
Research collaboration benefits include:
Academic institutions share their resources with space companies through equipment lending and facility access. Companies get specialized labs, and students get to use professional-grade gear.
Graduate programs keep in step with commercial spaceflight needs by offering specialized tracks—think spacecraft operations or space tourism safety systems.
Chicago space companies reach out to local schools and introduce kids to aerospace careers early on. These efforts often focus on students from underrepresented backgrounds who might not see themselves in the space industry otherwise.
Elementary and middle school programs get hands-on, letting students build model rockets, design spacecraft, and dive into the basics of space physics with interactive demos.
High schoolers get even more chances. They can join internship programs at local aerospace facilities and work alongside professional engineers on real projects.
The Center for Workforce Equity connects graduates from underrepresented communities with in-demand space industry jobs. This effort helps address diversity gaps while filling workforce needs.
Community program features include:
Public outreach events drum up community support for Chicago’s space industry. Companies throw open their doors for facility tours, launch viewing parties, and career fairs to spark interest in aerospace jobs.
Professional development programs help workers shift into space industry roles. These initiatives offer training in the specialized skills needed for spacecraft manufacturing and operations.
Chicago’s space industry thrives thanks to the city’s innovation centers, especially mHUB Chicago, which acts as the main incubator for space startups. These partnerships connect space companies with advanced manufacturing resources, speeding up product development.
mHUB Chicago has turned into the go-to spot for space industry development in the Midwest. The center gives space startups access to specialized equipment and technical know-how they just couldn’t get on their own.
NewSpace Chicago calls mHUB home. This nonprofit works to make the Midwest a real contender in commercial space. In just the past few years, eight space-related businesses have launched in the city.
The startups cover a lot of ground:
mHUB gives these companies manufacturing tools they couldn’t afford otherwise. The shared workspace model keeps costs down. Companies use 3D printing, CNC machines, and clean room facilities without breaking the bank.
Chicago’s manufacturing roots make it easy for space companies to find partners. The city’s industrial base already supplies precision parts for aerospace.
Space companies tap into this expertise without needing to build supplier relationships from scratch. Manufacturers here already get the quality standards that space work demands.
Research institutions keep these ties strong. Northwestern University and the University of Chicago supply engineering talent and research. Students often move straight into space jobs after graduation.
The financial sector helps too. Chicago’s status as a financial center means space companies have access to investment capital. Venture capital firms here get both tech and manufacturing requirements.
Chicago’s space industry keeps growing through new partnership models. Corporate innovation centers are starting space-focused programs, linking established companies with startups.
The city’s transportation infrastructure supports growth in the space industry. Rail and highways make it easy to move large spacecraft parts—an advantage that’ll matter even more as space manufacturing grows.
Government support strengthens the ecosystem with targeted programs. Local economic development initiatives help companies navigate regulations and land contracts.
The talent pipeline just keeps getting better. Universities are rolling out more space-specific engineering programs. Professional development helps current workers shift into space industry roles.
Chicago’s space sector faces tough competition from other regions and plenty of market barriers, but the city’s industrial base and the NewSpace Chicago initiative put it in a strong spot for commercial space growth.
Chicago goes up against established space hubs with years of aerospace investment behind them. California leads the pack with SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, and a ton of startups around LA and the Bay Area.
Florida keeps its edge thanks to the Kennedy Space Center and easy launch logistics. Texas has become a big player, with SpaceX’s Starship facility and Blue Origin’s operations.
The Midwest faces specific disadvantages:
Chicago’s manufacturing chops offer unique strengths. The region excels at precision manufacturing, advanced materials, and supply chain management. These skills line up perfectly with commercial space station components and satellite manufacturing.
NewSpace Chicago highlights these advantages to companies looking for lower costs and skilled workers. The city’s central location makes it great for serving both coasts and international markets.
Space businesses face steep capital needs and regulatory headaches. Launch services require big upfront investments, and satellite manufacturing needs specialized facilities and clean rooms.
Primary market barriers include:
Chicago companies often feel the distance from major NASA centers and big contractors. Being farther away can limit partnerships and contract opportunities.
The global space economy hit $570 billion in 2023, with commercial revenues making up almost 80% of that. This growth opens doors for Chicago businesses to become suppliers and service providers.
Venture capital is still pretty limited in the Midwest compared to the coasts. Space startups here often look for funding from traditional aerospace hotspots, which makes building the local ecosystem a bit trickier.
NewSpace Chicago steps in to connect regional companies with both investors and customers. The group brings together established manufacturers and emerging space businesses for networking and collaboration.
Chicago’s vision for its space economy focuses on using its industrial strengths to serve the booming commercial space market. The city wants to be a major supplier hub, not necessarily a direct competitor to big launch centers.
Manufacturing companies can pivot their aerospace expertise toward space applications. Boeing’s presence in Chicago provides a solid foundation, and smaller manufacturers can get into satellite components and space station modules.
Key growth areas include:
The planned 2030 end of the International Space Station brings new opportunities for commercial space stations. Chicago manufacturers could supply crucial parts for Axiom Station, Starlab, and Orbital Reef.
NewSpace Chicago promotes the region’s workforce and lower costs. The group sees Chicago as a manufacturing center for both government and commercial customers.
Universities like Northwestern and the University of Illinois bring research power and engineering talent. They help build the workforce and transfer technology to commercial uses.
The Midwest’s central location makes shipping components nationwide a breeze. Chicago’s transportation infrastructure supports both domestic and international space markets.
Chicago’s space business landscape gets a lot of questions about its companies, support systems, and what makes it stand out. The city offers some pretty unique opportunities thanks to its aerospace infrastructure and growing startup scene.
Boeing stands out as Chicago’s biggest space industry player, with its headquarters and major aerospace operations in the city. The company develops crucial space systems, including the CST-100 Starliner spacecraft for NASA’s Commercial Crew Program.
Aerojet Rocketdyne operates facilities in the Chicago area, making propulsion systems for all kinds of space missions. Their engines power both military and commercial satellites across the U.S.
Smaller space tech companies have set up shop in Chicago’s innovation districts. These firms focus on satellite parts, ground station equipment, and space data analytics.
The city also hosts regional offices for aerospace giants like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. These teams manage specific programs and support national space operations from their Chicago bases.
NewSpace Chicago leads the way in commercial space development in the Midwest. The nonprofit connects entrepreneurs with investors and creates networking opportunities for people in the space industry.
The group partners with local incubators like mHUB, giving startups access to workspace and prototyping facilities. Through these partnerships, space startups use 3D printing labs, electronics workshops, and metal fabrication equipment.
Chicago’s universities pitch in with research and talent development. Northwestern, University of Illinois at Chicago, and Illinois Institute of Technology all run aerospace engineering programs and space research.
The city’s financial sector gives companies access to venture capital and investment banking. Chicago’s experience in commodities trading even helps with space resources and satellite data markets.
Illinois backs aerospace companies with economic development programs, including tax incentives and grants. These efforts target advanced manufacturing and space tech specifically.
Boeing’s Starliner program is probably Chicago’s most high-profile space project. The company handles mission planning, crew training, and program management from its local facilities.
Chicago-based companies are working on satellite constellations for communications and Earth observation. They develop ground segment tech and data processing systems for commercial satellite operators.
The city also hosts research focused on space manufacturing and materials science. Universities partner with private companies on microgravity experiments and space-qualified component development.
Chicago companies join NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program, building tech and services for future commercial space stations and orbital facilities.
Defense contractors in Chicago work on military space projects, including missile defense and satellite protection. These efforts support Space Force operations and national security.
Chicago sits right in the middle of the country, and that central spot makes it a great hub for transportation. Companies here can reach both coasts quickly, and they tap into some well-established supply chains for aerospace parts.
The region’s long history with manufacturing gives local firms a real edge when it comes to building space hardware. You’ll find decades of aerospace know-how here, which helps with quality control and ramping up production.
Chicago’s financial scene stacks up surprisingly well against bigger space hubs like California and Florida. Lately, more venture capitalists in the city have started looking at space tech investments and funding startups.
Operating costs stay lower in Chicago than in places like California or Washington. Office space, factories, and even hiring talent don’t break the bank the way they might on the coasts.
Being close to major research universities means companies can easily find engineering talent and connect with researchers. This link helps drive innovation and keeps the workforce pipeline strong for space firms.
NewSpace Chicago brings startups together with mentors, investors, and even future customers in the space world. They host monthly events and offer support for business development, which can be a real boost for young companies.
Incubator spots at places like mHUB give hardware-focused startups access to workspaces and equipment. Teams can build satellite prototypes, test out materials, and work on space-ready products.
Chicago’s location near big agricultural markets opens up some cool possibilities for Earth observation and precision farming tech. Startups here can build satellite data services aimed at farms and the region’s commodity traders.
The city’s strong financial tech sector creates chances for space commerce and ways to make money from satellite data. Fintech skills come in handy for things like tracking space debris or even satellite insurance.
Government contracts are on the table too, thanks to nearby military bases and federal agencies. Space startups can chase after Small Business Innovation Research grants or defense contracts to help develop new technologies.
Space companies have to follow Federal Aviation Administration licensing rules for launch and reentry activities. Chicago doesn’t have launch facilities, but if you’re developing space vehicles here, the FAA still keeps an eye on your testing and operations.
Export control regulations, especially under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, impact space tech companies. If you’re in Chicago and want to share technical data or export space-related products, you’ll need to get the right licenses first.
NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program sets out some pretty specific partnership agreements and compliance standards. If you want to work with NASA, you’ll need to meet their safety, technical, and business requirements—which can be a tall order.
Illinois state regulations also come into play for aerospace manufacturing and testing inside Chicago. You might need environmental permits for things like propulsion testing or handling hazardous materials.
Protecting intellectual property really matters for space tech companies trying to compete globally. Luckily, Chicago’s legal scene has firms that focus on aerospace and tech patent law, so you’ve got some solid options.
