Lubbock Receives $500k in State Funding for Space Project

AUSTIN, TX —  The Texas Space Commission recently approved grant applications that total $21.5 million for four proposed projects, including one in Lubbock.

The South Plains Association of Governments in Lubbock received a $500,000 grant to conduct a feasibility study for an inland launch site in the area. The Concho Valley Council of Governments also received $500,000. El Paso received $20.5 million in grants.

“Today is a milestone day for us as we begin the process of awarding grants. Thank you to the Board and staff for your dedication to getting this process established and your diligence in doing it right,” said Gwen Griffin, chair of the TSC board. “The four awards approved today will support companies in Texas to partner with the U.S. Space Force, assess the feasibility of an aerospace corridor between El Paso and Midland, and understand how various regions in Texas can best engage with the burgeoning space economy.”

The Space Exploration & Aeronautics Research Fund (SEARF) application opened in September 2024, and by the January 21, 2025 deadline, the TSC had received 284 grant requests totaling $3.46 billion from 140 entities.

“With governing rules in place, each Board member is working through all of the compliant applications as quickly as possible. We know applicants are anxious to see the Commission increase its cadence of awards,” said Norman Garza Jr., TSC executive director.

The 88th Texas Legislature created the Texas Space Commission and the Texas Aerospace Research & Space Economy Consortium (TARSEC) through House Bill 3447, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in 2023. Lawmakers allocated $150 million for the SEARF grant program to support aerospace initiatives across the state.