Blue Economy Solutions

> Connect with port authorities, marine tech corporations, and research institutes

Focus Areas

• Maritime IoT and environmental sensors
• Port automation and digital twins
• Marine renewable energy and green fuels
• Sustainable aquaculture and coastal tourism
• Circular economy and marine waste recovery
• Data analytics and AI for port operations

Innovation Tools Available:

Start-ups participating in the challenge will gain access to:

• Ports 4.0: Spain’s national open innovation fund for the port-logistics sector, offering up to €2M in funding for commercial projects and €15,000 for early-stage ideas.

• BCN Port Innovation Foundation: A private foundation supporting innovation initiatives and facilitating collaboration with the port community.

• OpenPort Sandbox: A testing environment within the Port of Barcelona for pilot projects, prototypes, and proof-of-concept trials.

  Key Benefits:

1. Access to pilot zones within the Port of Barcelona for real-world testing.

2. Mentorship from maritime, logistics, and sustainability experts.

3. Visibility at SCEWC, with discounted exhibition space and speaking opportunities.

4. Integration into the BlueTechPort ecosystem, including co-working, data access, and innovation labs.

5. Networking with global stakeholders in shipping, aquaculture, marine energy, and biotech.

6. Support in applying to Ports 4.0 and other innovation funding programs.

7. Opportunities to publish thought leadership and showcase R&D results.

8. Participation in thematic events on decarbonization, smart ports, marine biodiversity, and digitalization.

9. Exposure to European initiatives like BlueInvest and Ocean Innovation Alliance.

The selected companies will have the opportunity to test their solutions in live port operations, helping to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact and support digital transformation. They will also become part of the Port of Barcelona and Barcelona's innovation ecosystem for the blue economy, building partnerships, reaching new markets and accelerating the growth of impactful maritime technologies.