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Fact Sheet

The Project

The 8th Continent Project is a comprehensive effort to integrate space technology and resources into the global economy. The Project includes a chamber of commerce, business incubator, funding network and research center. The Project is organizing "Space 2.0" – the emerging generation of entrepreneurial space-related business ventures.

Joining the Colorado School of Mines, initial 8th Continent Founders include: DigitalGlobe, Keiretsu Forum/Denver angel network, Townsend & Townsend & Crew IP law firm, Metzger Associates Public Relations, MicroSat Systems, Broad Reach Engineering, Colorado Governor's Office of Economic Development and International Trade, and the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Colorado.

8th Continent Chamber of Commerce
  • The 8th Continent Chamber of Commerce accelerates the emergence of Space 2.0 businesses based on wide-ranging new technologies, from energy to aerospace, and from software to location-based services.
  • It provides members with visibility, quality contacts, corporate credibility and an environment to promote business.
  • The Chamber offers different levels of membership so participants can choose the option that gives them the most benefit.
8th Continent Business Incubator
  • The Incubator helps bring space-related technologies to commercialization by connecting start-up companies to talent, resources and capital.
8th Continent Funding Network
  • The 8th Continent Funding Network is a source connecting promising start-ups seeking early-stage equity funding.
  • The Lunar Ventures business plan competition offers $25,000 cash awards to winners and eligibility for $100,000 seed-stage investment.
8th Continent Research
  • The research branch of 8th Continent Project is the Center for Space Resources. Built on the foundation of the Earth resources curriculum and research programs at the Colorado School of Mines, the Center for Space Resources is extending the expertise of the school to the "8th Continent" of space by pioneering the human and robotic exploration and utilization of space resources and technology. The Center pursues these objectives through education, research and technology development projects on campus as well as with other academic institutions, government agencies, international partners and private sector companies.