The ESA Global Development Assistance (GDA) programme has worked with International Financial Institutions (IFIs), country stakeholders and European EO Industry for many years to demonstrate how Earth observation can support sustainable development and informed decision-making. Building on this experience, the next phase under Earth Action aims to accelerate the operational integration of EO and enable data-driven digital transformation across partner institutions.

GDA goes Earth Action wants to reflect on lessons learned from the GDA programme and explore what is needed to move from individual, project-based applications towards the sustained adoption of EO through through capacity building, mainstreaming elements, public goods and impact pathways, and the technical assistance facility.

Across two days, participants will explore the full pathway for integrating EO-enabled solutions into development programmes: from identifying strategic priorities and designing solutions, through implementation and service delivery, to monitoring and informed decision-making.

Access here the draft AGENDA.

An interactive space for exchange

GDA goes Earth Action is designed as a working and learning space rather than a conventional conference. Through simulations, peer learning, facilitated discussions and hands-on exercises, participants will have the opportunity to share experiences, test approaches and identify practical pathways for integrating EO into development programmes.

Participation is intended to be interactive and collaborative. Places may therefore be limited if registrations exceed the capacity needed to preserve the format and quality of the discussions.

Join us on 22–23 September 2026 to explore how Earth observation can move from demonstrated potential to sustained operational use in support of development and informed decision-making.

REGISTER HERE