RD&I funding announced for newcomers to marine tech
Marine-i has announced research, development and innovation (RD&I) support for businesses that are newcomers to the marine sector.
Part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, Marine-i is designed to help the marine tech sector in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly grow through harnessing the full potential of research and innovation.
The programme brings together expertise from the University of Exeter, Cornwall Development Company, University of Plymouth, Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, The Cornwall College Group and Cornwall Marine Network.
Programme director, Prof Lars Johanning, said: “At this stage in our highly successful programme, we are keen to support the development of projects led by innovative businesses which can be realised within relatively short timeframes and which deliver significant impact relative to the investment required.
“These could either be businesses already operating in the marine tech sector or businesses in a related field, such as engineering, manufacturing, software or AI, which would like to take advantage of the many fast-growing opportunities in marine technology.
“The marine tech landscape in Cornwall is vibrant and dynamic, with exciting emerging opportunities such as floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea and many other fast-growing developments such as new methods of marine propulsion, greater use of autonomous vehicles and other innovative ways of helping meet the climate emergency and protect our oceans.”
The South West is a global hub of marine tech innovation. The OECD predict that the global Ocean Economy could double in size by 2030, reaching a gross value added of around USD 3 trillion.
Matt Hodson, marine operations director at Marine-i partner, Cornwall Development Company, said: “Areas of current focus include the use of data to support sectors like floating offshore wind and we especially welcome further dialogue with businesses interested in this area.
“The support available through Marine-i includes expert research support, access to world class test facilities and sometimes grant support. It is one of the most comprehensive support programmes for innovation available anywhere in the world.
“We are excited to see many examples of businesses and start-ups in Cornwall that are set to make a big impact on marine tech markets, which are newcomers to the sector. These businesses often punch above their weight and we are keen to work with more of these kind of businesses, helping them to accelerate their innovation and fulfil their potential.”
Learn more about Marine-i at marine-i.co.uk
