SPACETIDE Signs MOU with the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF)

SPACETIDE (Location: Minato-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and CEO: Masayasu Ishida) is pleased to announce that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) to foster community development and strengthen collaboration in the space industry and the field of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT).

In recent years, geospatial intelligence (GEOINT), which utilizes diverse data obtained from satellites, has become increasingly important in a wide range of fields, from various commercial businesses and climate change countermeasures to national security. By collaborating, SPACETIDE, which is driving the expansion of Japan's space business ecosystem, and USGIF, which has been leading the US geospatial intelligence community by hosting the "GEOINT Symposium" since 2004, will combine the networks and expertise of both Japan and the United States to promote the creation of new innovations.

Based on this MOU, both organizations will promote the following initiatives:

• Jointly develop new content and programs by combining the expertise and community access of both organizations.

• Mutual invitation to events and conferences hosted or curated by either party, including SPACETIDE 2026 and GEOINT Symposium 2026, and mutual cooperation in supporting public relations activities through their respective official social media channels.

• Create collaborative opportunities that connect the communities of both organizations, such as collaborations aimed at fostering innovation, which will be beneficial to both the geospatial intelligence and space industry communities.

■ Comment from Masayasu Ishida, Representative Director and CEO of SPACETIDE

With the motto "Unlocking Space for All Humanity," SPACETIDE is working to create a future where space transforms all industries and society, and where all individuals can live in harmony with space. Satellite data and services are the areas within the diverse space business that can benefit the most organizations and individuals, and their fusion with geospatial intelligence will accelerate this. Through our partnership with USGIF, a pioneer in this field, we will create a platform where professionals in the space industry and geospatial fields of Japan and the US can interact, and by serving as a bridge between the two communities, we will contribute to the creation of new value and industrial development from a global perspective.

■ Comment from Ronda Schrenk, CEO of the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF)

USGIF was founded on the belief that a stronger, more connected community delivers superior outcomes for those who need geospatial intelligence and for the missions they support. This partnership with SPACETIDE embodies that belief on a global scale. Japan is a vital ally and a vibrant player in the commercial space sector. SPACETIDE has built one of the most dynamic space business ecosystems in the Asia-Pacific region. Together, we will open new doors for professionals in both our communities and create opportunities for collaboration and innovation to advance the responsible use of geospatial intelligence for a more secure and prosperous world.

■ About the United States Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) https://usgif.org/

USGIF is a non-profit organization established in 2004 with the aim of developing the field of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) related to national security. As a unique platform connecting government, industry, and academia, it focuses on hosting the world's largest "GEOINT Symposium" and supporting education through scholarships and university accreditation programs.

■ SPACETIDE  https://spacetide.jp/

Since 2015, SPACETIDE has been working with the vision of "developing new space industries in Japan and the world," aiming to boost the entire space business through cross-industry initiatives and create new pathways for space business. Since 2015, it has hosted the "SPACETIDE," Japan's international space business conference, annually. It is a member of the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) and received the "Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award" at the 6th Space Development and Utilization Grand Prize hosted by the Cabinet Office.