One giant leap: Bridging the SME gap in space
Peter Rossdeutscher
Space is open for business, but getting SMEs a foothold in this commercial frontier requires special matchmaking with government and defence - which Peter Rossdeutscher and Quantum TX are becoming masters at.
“The biggest gap we found is small businesses didn’t understand space,” the Chief Executive said. He aims to create a circular ecosystem to close the gap in support for SMEs ready to scale up and explore stellar opportunities.
Mr Rossdeutscher’s strategy is straightforward: shuttle SME technologies between the defence, energy, and space sectors. This move helps each industry, as improvements in one lead to new chances in the others, building a web of growth and fresh ideas.
Some examples of companies and technologies that Quantum TX has worked with include Universal Field Robotics, which specialises in robotics for dangerous areas, and Innovative Energy Solutions, which developed an automated cleaner for solar panels at the mine site.
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Mr Rossdeutscher assists these export-oriented SMEs with cross-sector integration, leveraging government and defence opportunities. “We connect them to our networks, raise their profile and get them in touch with the right people so they can scale up.”
He points out the difficulties SMEs face in bidding for large government projects, suggesting that their scale and complexities often need to align with the capabilities of smaller companies.
“Dealing with government as a customer is tough, but it’s a major opportunity,” Mr Rossdeutscher said.
One potential solution revolves around tailored government-led programs to connect SMEs with larger projects. These programs could be structured as a requirement for large contractors, ensuring SME participation.
“For Australia to compete internationally, we need to build that small business engagement,” he said.
Quantum TX started life as a company connected to mining and energy resources. They used their robotics and artificial intelligence know-how, which they learned from working in those industries, to support the government’s big plans to become a leader in technology for space.
The companies that go through their program are export-focused. “We primarily target companies in the scale-up stage, which means they already have a product, customers, and a market presence.”
A hefty number of SMEs apply each year - around 100 - but only 30 slots are available for those with the potential to grow and extend their operations into different industries or fields. “We help them build international contacts and networks, essential for navigating organisations like NASA or the European Space Agency,” Mr Rossdeutscher said.
Read the full article on the InnovationAus.com website HERE