2026
[ S P A C E ]
CONGRESS
INAUGURAL SPACE CONGRESS I APRIL 29, 2026 I PHOENIX, ARIZONA, USA
More than a convening
Space Congress was designed to activate a statewide effort to strengthen Arizona's commercial space economy. The conversations, relationships, and priorities established during Congress continue through a state specific Space Blueprint, new strategic partnerships, ongoing stakeholder engagement, and the collaborative initiatives now taking shape across the ecosystem.
Early traction in Arizona
Arizona’s first Space Congress transformed collaboration into action. Arizona Space Congress was the catalyst—not the conclusion. It brought together the people, ideas, and organizations needed to begin coordinating Arizona's commercial space ecosystem. Since Space Congress, those conversations have continued through the Arizona Space Blueprint, strategic partnerships, and collaborative initiatives that will help shape the state's long-term future.
Creating momentum
The impact of Arizona Space Congress extended well beyond the conference venue. Earned media coverage across Arizona's leading television, radio, business, and digital publications helped carry the conversation statewide, increasing awareness of Arizona's commercial space ecosystem and reinforcing the importance of cross-sector collaboration to accelerate long-term growth.
What we achieved
300+
Participants
5
Community
Activators
4
Strategic Working Sessions
1
Arizona Space Blueprint
The Ranked Set of Opportunities for Arizona
Arizona's position in the space economy is being built on assets that already exist.
The state ranks first nationally in guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing employment concentration. More than $2.8 billion in aerospace and defense expansion investment has landed in Arizona over the past five years. More than 12,500 jobs have been added, and more than 60 aerospace and defense expansions have been announced.
What has been missing is a shared view of where these assets connect, where the opportunities sit, and what actions matter most over the next decade.
The Arizona Space Blueprint™ was developed through the 2026 Space Congress and informed by leaders across industry, government, academia, investment, and economic development. It brings together the data, priorities, opportunities, and market signals shaping Arizona's role in the global space economy. The Space Blueprint serves as a practical resource for understanding where Arizona stands today and where it can go next.