Megacorporation

With the expansion of the Greater Terran Union into neighboring star systems, it quickly became apparent the vast quantities of materials and manpower that would be required to colonize and otherwise exploit the territory they claimed.

It was resolved that this burden would be handled "privately" by a trio of GTU - endorsed megacorporations (Exotech, Blue Sun Corporation, and Kraken Industries) established specifically for this purpose. These megacorps were given full autonomy over a region of space outside of GTU territory. They are contracted to explore their territory, exploit resources, research new science, and colonize habitable worlds. The Greater Terran Union then pays a bonus for developed systems which are then brought into the Union officially, expanding their borders.