GROUND-breaking ideas that could 'change the world' are being sought by innovation centres across the county.

Oxfordshire's seven innovation centres, based in Upper Heyford, Bicester, Witney, Culham, Harwell and Oxford, have launched the programme in a bid to boost the UK's space sector.

Open to established businesses and new company founders, the OI Space Incubator, is looking for ideas which have the ability to solve real-world problems using satellites.

Interested parties have been challenged to find ways of using satellites to solve real-world problems in sectors such as transport, agriculture and healthcare.

Successful applicants will have access to a package of support, worth thousands of pounds, to help them develop their ideas including commercialisation workshops, research support and internships.

Oxford Innovation has helped more than 10,000 small and medium sized enterprizes (SMEs) to become sustainable businesses since 1987.

Richard May, Innovation Director at Oxford Innovation, said: “This unique programme will provide successful applicants with world-class research and innovation support.

“We are very thankful for the support from the UK Space Agency and the growing number of expert partners that are lining up to offer free guidance and test facilities.

"The University of Southampton and Ordnance Survey have set the scene of big organisations collaborating with SMEs and start-ups."

He hopes the programme will help businesses to grow their market position, adding: "It will also give the next generation of space-related start-ups the real life support to launch and succeed.”

Applicants have until April 30 to express their interest in applying for the incubator programme at www.oispace.co.uk/registration/