Building smart and clean shipping 

A cargo ship at sea

The Northern Netherlands has centuries of ties to the sea. Today it is a breeding ground for maritime innovation. The entire chain comes together here: from design and supply to construction and operation of both commercial and recreational ships. Its location on the North Sea is a strategic advantage, but it is mainly the intensive cooperation between entrepreneurs, knowledge institutions and governments that distinguishes the region. 

A good example is the Green Maritime Coalition: 21 parties - including shipyards, technology companies, colleges and the University of Groningen - are working together on completely emission-free short sea shipping. With the support of launching customers and suppliers, the coalition is developing sustainable solutions that will be emulated worldwide. 

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Opportunities and challenges in the northern Netherlands

The maritime sector is in transition. The demand for smart, clean and digital solutions is growing rapidly. The Northern Netherlands offers space and facilities to test and develop those innovations. Think of electric or hydrogen propulsion, smart radar systems, predictive maintenance and autonomous ships. 

Companies such as ABB, Intellian Technologies, Threatspan and Ramlab show that the region is attractive to technology frontrunners. I4Sea, which maps sea and weather conditions to improve shipping routes, also demonstrates the value of using data in the maritime sector. 

At the same time, scaling up is difficult. Attracting professionals, increasing the knowledge base and closing gaps remains a challenge. 

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Strengthening Maritime Together

Northern Netherlands seeks companies that want to contribute to smart, clean and competitive shipping. There is a need for knowledge in the areas of smart shipping, maritime cyber security, sustainable materials and robotics. Companies with experience in scaling up prototypes or 3D printing of parts are also welcome. They can help bring innovative ideas from the drawing board to practice faster - a step that many maritime innovations are currently stuck in. 

NOM supports you with access to networks, funding and strategic advice. We bring you into contact with leading knowledge partners, such as the Maritime Academy Harlingen, NHL Stenden Hogeschool and the Maritime Institute Willem Barentsz. 

Together we are building a strong ecosystem where innovations are both conceived and practically implemented. Connecting sectors such as cleantech or IT also creates new market opportunities. 

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Discuss your options

Wondering how your organization can contribute to the future of Maritime? Contact us for personal advice and a support proposal.