Guidelines For Lunar Ventures

Each Lunar Ventures business plan proposal is to identify business opportunities that either (a) employ existing space technology in products with near-term terrestrial market potential, or (b) provide solutions for near-term terrestrial markets by employing technology which, when developed further, will lead to products with space applications.

Lunar ventures will be interpreted broadly; in fact, it is not required that they have anything to do with the Moon. They may include ventures operating in space as well as ventures developing technologies that will have space implications although the initial application will be on Earth. They should, however, demonstrate "space potential" - that is, "soda vending machines on the Moon" proposals are not likely to be selected.

Of the ten 2007 Finalists, eight, including the Grand Champion and three Runners Up, pursued a dual strategy for commercializing their primary technology. We encourage teams planning to compete in 2008 to analyze the 2007 venture descriptions.

Preference will be given to proposals that demonstrate near-term (3-5 years) feasibility in markets for either (a) space-based activities or (b) Earth-based activities leading to space-based activities. Remember: the only question that the judges will be asked to answer is "Would I invest my money in this venture?" Successful proposals will be attractive to investors today!

A newly announced initiative, The Eighth Continent(TM) Project, has released BRINGING SPACE DOWN TO EARTH: A Roadmap for Integrating Space Resources Into the Global Economy. We urge you to download and review this document as your prepare your business plan proposal. You may also find useful resources in the web site of the Eighth Continent Chamber of Commerce.