The Space Economy: New Frontiers for Business and Logistics with Stephan Reckie

In this episode of Interlinks, I'm joined by Stephan Reckie, Executive Director of GEN Space, the space entrepreneurship initiative of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, to explore the commercial opportunities emerging in the space economy and what they mean for businesses here on Earth.

Stephan traces his journey from electrical engineering and international technology sales through operations in China, angel investing and work on the commercial potential of the International Space Station. He explains why he sees space as a location for business, and how GEN Space connects founders, investors, universities and other participants through advice, introductions and collaboration.

We discuss Earth observation and satellite data services, opportunities in microgravity manufacturing and pharmaceutical research, and the practical challenge of moving equipment and materials into space and bringing valuable products back. We also explore customer discovery, public-private partnerships and the role established logistics providers could play as these supply chains develop. Along the way, Stephan shares his enthusiasm for boating, languages, travel and reading.

From my macro-to-micro perspective, the technological developments making space operations more viable will increasingly translate into new products, applications and ways of working on Earth. They will create business opportunities across sectors, including for full-service logistics operators that build partnerships with the specialists developing space transport, manufacturing and return capabilities.

Stephan will be speaking at the Futura Innovation Conference in Limerick, Ireland, from 19 to 21 October 2026. The event brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and researchers across sectors. In our conversation, he previews discussions on AI and space, investment and financing, and becoming a space entrepreneur.

Interlinks listeners can save €50 on the €399 ticket price and book for €349 by entering PDALY, in capitals, on the booking page. Book Futura with discount code PDALY Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.