The UK’s National Oceanography Centre (NOC) has launched an Innovation Hub in Southampton, designed to accelerate advances in ocean technology and support sustainable growth across the Blue Economy.
Backed by a £200,000 investment, the state-of-the-art facility aims to be a catalyst for innovation bringing together researchers, businesses and entrepreneurs to drive progress across the ocean and maritime sectors.
“Our mission is to foster innovation and innovative organisations in a collaborative environment, supporting and advancing commercial opportunities in the blue economy by creating connections between industry and science,” said Mark Hamson, Innovation Hub Manager. “This will help to harness the potential of the ocean for sustainable economic development, driving innovation and creating jobs and value in sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, maritime transport and renewable energy to a wider pool of innovators.”
The hub, run under NOC Innovations, NOC’s enterprise arm, extends the services and facilities provided by the former Marine Robotics Innovation Centre(MRIC) at NOC. This includes supporting a wider range of organizations across the ocean and maritime sectors, with a goal to double Innovation Hub membership from the more than 40 currently.
Global ocean conservation charity, The Ocean Conservation Trust, has joined as a member. “NOC’s new Innovation Hub offers us an impactful network that champions economic resilience, innovation and sustainability,” said CEO Ian McFadzen. “It has long been a driving force in bringing businesses together to create a prosperous and sustainable future and we’re pleased to be part of its growth to drive further value for society.”
