SmallSat Europe 2026: Preparing for Three Days of Market, Policy, and Engineering Discussions in Amsterdam

SmallSat Europe 2026 will take place from 26 to 28 May at RAI Amsterdam Convention Centre, bringing together stakeholders across commercial, institutional, and research segments of the small satellite sector.

Positioned as one of the largest dedicated smallsat gatherings in Europe, the event is expected to host more than 2,000 participants from over 40 countries, alongside a large exhibition floor and a multi-track conference programme.

Three agendas reflecting different parts of the ecosystem

The 2026 edition is structured around three parallel tracks, each targeting a specific audience within the sector.

The Business Agenda focuses on commercial strategy, investment dynamics, and partnership development. It reflects the continued growth of Europe’s smallsat market, including increasing private investment and new operational models.

The Defence Agenda addresses national security, resilience, and dual-use capabilities. This track aligns with broader European discussions around sovereign space infrastructure and the role of small satellites in defence applications.

The Technical Programme presents peer-reviewed contributions covering platforms, payloads, and mission operations. It offers a space for engineering and research communities to share developments and practical insights.

Emphasis on pre-event engagement

A notable feature of the event is its structured approach to networking. Registered participants gain access to a matchmaking platform powered by b2match, where attendees can browse profiles, receive AI-based contact suggestions, and schedule meetings ahead of the event.

This approach shifts part of the interaction from the exhibition floor to the pre-event phase, allowing participants to arrive with a defined set of meetings and objectives.

Timeline and current status

As of early May 2026, most preparatory milestones have been completed. Abstract submissions for the technical programme closed in January, with acceptances issued in February. Final technical papers were due at the end of April.

Registration remains open, although early bird pricing has ended. Accommodation near the venue is becoming limited due to high demand during the event week.

Exhibition scale and industry presence

The exhibition will feature more than 200 companies spanning the full value chain of the small satellite ecosystem. This includes manufacturers, component suppliers, launch providers, data companies, and institutional actors.

Participants include organisations such as Airbus Defence and Space, OHB SE, GomSpace, EnduroSat, and NL Space Campus, among many others.

The scale of participation reflects the continued expansion of the European smallsat sector, both in terms of industrial capacity and the diversity of applications.

Amsterdam as a meeting point

The event location in Amsterdam provides accessibility for international attendees, with direct connections via Schiphol Airport and a compact urban layout that supports in-person meetings beyond the venue itself.

With the programme finalised and the matchmaking platform already active, the coming weeks are expected to focus on scheduling, logistics, and final coordination before the event opens.