The Advanced Center for Aerospace Technologies (CATEC) is proud to lead the ECO-AERO project, a unique aerospace innovation ecosystem in Spain that has been recognized and funded by the Center for Industrial Technological Development (CDTI) within its first call for Innovation Ecosystems.
ECO-AERO, whose full name is “Creation of an Efficient, Open, Inclusive, and Interconnected Trans-Regional Aerospace Innovation Ecosystem,” has as its main objective the promotion of innovative technologies that strengthen the competitiveness of the Spanish aerospace industry globally. This strategic project focuses on sustainability, digitalization, and the development of green aviation, highlighting the use of hydrogen as an energy carrier and the creation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAS).
ECO-AERO has a leading group in the sector; with the participation of key players in the aerospace sector, including:
- AIRBUS, a global leader in aircraft manufacturing.
- TEDAE, the Spanish Association of Defense, Security, Aeronautics and Space Technologies.
- Andalucía Aerospace, the aeronautical cluster of Andalusia.
- HEGAN, the aeronautical cluster of the Basque Country.
- ASIME, the Association of Metal Industries and Associated Technologies of Galicia.
- TEKNIKER, Cervera center of excellence in the Basque Country.
- FIDAMC, a technology center specializing in advanced composite materials in Madrid.
This grouping, together with the leadership of CATEC, ensures a comprehensive approach that combines innovation, regional collaboration, and technological development.
Objectives: Among ECO-AERO’s key objectives are:
- Promote knowledge transfer between companies, technology centers and other key players in the ecosystem.
- Strengthening the national supply chain, generating high-quality employment and leading R&D in the sector.
- Promote more sustainable aviation by boosting the use of hydrogen and the development of new technologies for unmanned aircraft (UAS).
With a total budget of €1,112,994 and a duration of 22 months, ECO-AERO will develop key activities in the commercialization of the ecosystem and the enhancement of the technological capabilities of the participating companies.
ECO-AERO is a pioneer in integrating key Cervera technologies such as Additive Manufacturing, Applied Artificial Intelligence, and Robotics into 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 anticipate future technological needs, promoting a more efficient, sustainable, and connected aerospace industry.
Project financed by the Ministry of Science and Innovation through the Centre for Industrial Technological Development (CDTI), within the framework of the «Innovation Ecosystems» program, charged to the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism (RRM) of the European Union with File Identification No: EXP – 00166454 / ECO-20241002.
