My Space Story - Portia Bowman
My name is Portia Bowman, founder and CEO of Growbotics Space Ltd, a company dedicated to enabling a circular space economy.
My journey into the world of space started at university where I studied physics at undergraduate level before pursuing a masters degree in space systems engineering. I went on to work as an engineer on ESA (European Space Agency) and NASA missions before taking on a business leadership role. My time as an engineer deepened my innovative mindset, though I felt eager to combine this practical knowledge with entrepreneurship which led to me co-founding non-profit organisation spacecareers.uk in 2015 before founding Growbotics Space Ltd in 2022.
About Growbotics Space
Ltd Satellites are currently single use by design so Growbotics Space Ltd aims to disrupt the traditional approach to space manufacturing and is leading the way by developing technology to re-use components on orbit, thereby reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. But my vision goes beyond environmental sustainability. I am passionate about creating an inclusive sector that values diversity and promotes innovation, where everyone is empowered to contribute and collaborate toward a common purpose – something that appealed to me about the UK Space Agency Accelerator. Through thought leadership and expert services, I believe Growbotics Space Ltd is on its way to becoming a leading force in the circular space industry, helping the sector to value profits and purpose equally.
Accelerator Ambitions
To help me realise my dreams for Growbotics, I made the decision to join the UK Space Agency Accelerator’s Explore programme. I am grateful for the connections my previous roles granted me and came to know of the accelerator through people who had previously taken part in the pilot. I am excited to enhance my business knowledge, network with like-minded entrepreneurs within the cohort and to learn from other people in and outside the realm of space knowledge. I think gaining perspectives from those outside the space industry will be beneficial to broadening commercial insight and gaining key entrepreneurial knowledge to help my business thrive.
I hope with the help of the UK Space Agency Accelerator, Growbotics Space Ltd will grow to play an integral role in making space more sustainable. To me, a successful business is not simply measured in pound signs, I am striving to encourage sustainable business practice for the rest of the space sector and for society.
The UK Space Agency is always looking for entrepreneurs to join its accelerator programmes. So, if like Portia you are an entrepreneur with a space business, or are using space technology in another sector, why not find out more. We are currently accepting applications for our Leo and Geo programmes until 21st April.
Applications for the next Explore cohort will open on the 21st of June.