The Advanced Center for Aerospace Technologies (CATEC) is proud to lead the ECO-AERO project, a unique aerospace innovation ecosystem in Spain. It has been recognized and funded by the Center for Industrial Technological Development (CDTI) as part of its first Innovation Ecosystems call.
ECO-AERO, whose full name is “Creating a Trans-Regional, Efficient, Open, Inclusive, and Interconnected Aerospace Innovation Ecosystem,” has the main objective of promoting the development of innovative technologies that strengthen the Spanish aerospace industry’s global competitiveness. This strategic project focuses on sustainability, digitalization, and the development of green aviation, highlighting the use of hydrogen as an energy vector and the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAS).
ECO-AERO has a leading partnership in the sector, with the participation of key players in the aerospace sector, including:
- AIRBUS, global leader in aeronautical manufacturing.
- TEDAE, the Spanish Association of Defense, Security, Aeronautics and Space Technologies.
- Andalucía Aerospace, the aeronautical cluster of Andalusia.
- HEGAN, the Basque Country’s aeronautical cluster.
- ASIME, the Association of Metal Industries and Associated Technologies of Galicia.
- TEKNIKER, Cervera’s center of excellence in the Basque Country.
- FIDAMC, a technology center specializing in advanced composite materials in Madrid.
This grouping, together with CATEC’s leadership, ensures a comprehensive approach that combines innovation, regional collaboration, and technological development.
Objectives: Key objectives of ECO-AERO include:
- Promote the transfer of knowledge between companies, technology centers, and other key players in the ecosystem.
- Strengthen the national supply chain, generating high-quality employment and leading R&D in the sector.
- Promote more sustainable aviation by encouraging the use of hydrogen and developing new technologies for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAS).
With a total budget of €1,112,994 and a duration of 22 months, ECO-AERO will develop key activities to commercialize the ecosystem and enhance the technological capabilities of participating companies.
ECO-AERO is a pioneer in integrating Cervera’s priority technologies such as Additive Manufacturing, Applied Artificial Intelligence, and Robotics in Smart Manufacturing, positioning Spain at the forefront of aerospace innovation. This innovation ecosystem not only seeks to solve the sector’s current challenges but also to anticipate the technological needs of the future, promoting a more efficient, sustainable, and connected aerospace industry.
Project funded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation through the Center for Industrial Technological Development (CDTI), within the framework of the “Innovation Ecosystems” program, under the Recovery and Resilience Facility (MRR) of the European Union with File Identification No.: EXP – 00166454 / ECO-20241002.
