Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson is directing $350,000 from an economic development fund to assist Portal Space Systems in establishing a new 50,000-square-foot satellite manufacturing facility in Bothell, Wash. This strategic investment is geared towards aiding Portal in their shift from testing and development to scalable production, with a target of producing four spacecraft per month by 2027. The expansion is expected to generate over 100 jobs in the next two years and more than 700 jobs by 2030.
Ferguson’s announcement today signifies a significant step towards supporting Portal’s growth and development in the space industry. The Governor’s Economic Development Strategic Reserve Fund will be utilized to facilitate this expansion, showcasing Washington’s commitment to fostering innovation and creating employment opportunities within the state. With a vision to solidify Washington’s position as a leader in space technology, Ferguson’s decision reflects the state’s dedication to pioneering projects like Portal’s expansion in Bothell.
Portal Space Systems has been operating out of an 8,000-square-foot facility in Bothell, focusing on the development of their flagship Supernova in-space mobility platform and a smaller spacecraft named Starburst. The Supernova spacecraft is set to feature an innovative solar thermal propulsion system that utilizes concentrated sunlight to power its thrusters, offering enhanced mobility for commercial and government payloads in orbit.
CEO Jeff Thornburg expressed his excitement about the company’s growth trajectory, stating, “We’ve spent the last year proving what’s possible. Now we’re scaling to deliver it.” With the support from Washington state, Portal aims to build a strategic capability for the nation right from their headquarters in Bothell, further solidifying their presence in the space industry.
Revenue for the Strategic Reserve Fund is sourced from unclaimed lottery prizes, with the primary goal of attracting and retaining jobs and economic investments in Washington. The fund is earmarked for highly strategic projects that drive substantial job creation and capital investment, in collaboration with local associate development organizations like Economic Alliance Snohomish County. The Governor’s awards from the fund are based on recommendations from the Department of Commerce.
Commerce Director Joe Nguyen commended Portal Space Systems for their innovative approach to space technology, stating, “Portal Space Systems represents the kind of bold, future-facing innovation we’re proud to see growing in Washington.” With the recent investment from the Governor, Portal is well-positioned to scale up its operations and contribute to Washington’s reputation as a hub for top-tier talent and national space infrastructure.
Projects funded through the Strategic Reserve Fund require accompanying private investment. Since its establishment in 2021, Portal has secured over $22 million in venture capital financing and grants, along with a commitment of $45 million in public-private funding through the U.S. Space Force’s STRATFI program.
