Cornwall space firms get legal lift-off

A new £15,000 legal support programme has launched to help space and aerospace businesses in Cornwall protect their innovations and prepare for growth.

Cornwall Space Cluster has partnered with South West law firm Stephens Scown to provide specialist legal advice to its members, with backing from Cornwall Council and the UK Space Agency.

Officials say the initiative will offer businesses up to three hours of legal support, covering intellectual property, commercial contracts, company documentation and investment readiness.

It aims to help smaller firms access expertise they may otherwise struggle to afford, strengthening the region’s growing space and aerospace sector.

Nathan Coe, Cornwall Space Cluster lead, said: “Cornwall is home to a vibrant and fast-growing community of space-related businesses, with many operating at the forefront of innovation. 

“Access to specialist legal support can make a significant difference as these businesses seek to commercialise new technologies, attract investment and scale. 

“We’re delighted to be working with Stephens Scown to help businesses access this expertise.”

The programme will draw on Stephens Scown’s commercial, corporate and intellectual property teams, led by John Catchpole.

He previously advised Spaceport Cornwall ahead of the UK’s first sovereign space launch attempt and worked with AeroSpace Cornwall to support more than 40 businesses.

John added: “Cornwall has built an impressive reputation as a centre for space and aerospace innovation, with businesses attracting national and international attention. 

“This programme will help those businesses access specialist support that can strengthen their foundations, protect their innovation and position them for future success.”

The partnership forms part of wider efforts to strengthen Cornwall’s space industry and help emerging companies overcome barriers to growth.

Cornwall Space Cluster members can access the programme by filling out this form.

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