23 May, 2025

 

 

 

Munster Technological University (MTU), through the Hincks Centre for Entrepreneurship Excellence, recently hosted a series of impactful events as part of the Interreg Atlantic Area Programme-funded Blue Shuttle Project, aimed at supporting innovation and digital transformation within the blue economy sector.

 

On the occasion of the 3rd Steering Committee Meeting (SCM) of the Blue Shuttle project, project partners from across Europe gathered in Cork, Ireland, for a two-day session held in conjunction with European Maritime Day. This meeting facilitated strategic alignment and collaboration among stakeholders as the project continues to advance its objectives.

 

 

The Hincks Centre was delighted to welcome representatives from partner organisations including:

• Munster Technological University
• WestBIC
• CEEI Bahía de Cádiz
• CTAQUA – Centro Tecnológico de Acuicultura
• UPTEC – Science and Technology Park of the University of Porto
• CIIMAR
• Pôle Mer Bretagne Atlantique

 

 

The SCM also provided a platform to review progress, share regional updates, and plan forward-looking initiatives that support SMEs in maritime and coastal industries.

Exploring Digitalisation: Blue Economy Workshop

Complementing the SCM, MTU also hosted a hybrid workshop on 21st May, titled “Blue Shuttle: Digitalisation in the Blue Economy”. The event brought together academia, industry, and innovation stakeholders to explore digital strategies shaping the future of the maritime sector.

Two esteemed guest speakers shared practical insights into the evolving role of digital tools:

 

 

Frank Fleming, Founder and CEO of Verifact, offered perspectives grounded in years of experience within the marine and software sectors. A former commercial fisherman, Frank established Verifact in 2009 to provide traceability, food safety, and sustainability solutions for the marine industry, with the company now serving clients in agriculture, construction, and manufacturing.

 

 

Dr. Jessica Giannoumis, of Hatch Blue, highlighted how innovation and entrepreneurship are key to a thriving and sustainable aquaculture ecosystem. Her work supports coastal innovation by linking startups to networks, investment, and technical resources.

The workshop fostered dialogue between experts, entrepreneurs, and researchers, reinforcing the project’s mission to accelerate sustainable transformation through digitalisation.
 

To follow ongoing developments, insights, and opportunities within the Blue Shuttle Project, please subscribe to the newsletter.

 

 

For more about the Blue Shuttle Project, click here.

 

Dr. Wei Xiong,

Academic Researcher,

Hincks Centre for Entrepreneurship Excellence.