Danish Ocean Cluster officially launches today

Today marks the official launch of the Danish Ocean Cluster, a new initiative aimed at uniting key players in Denmark's blue economy. The new organization seeks to enhance collaboration among industries involved in fishing, aquaculture, fishing technology, and related innovations within Danish fishing ports. It also aims to foster developments in energy, waste, and side stream management, with a particular emphasis on projects in the North Atlantic.

"The main objective is to strengthen the commercial relations within the "blue" sector, especially regarding innovative and circular business models and new projects. The Danish Ocean Cluster is thus a Danish and international network for everyone who is interested in entering into industrial symbioses and creating innovative commercial business for the benefit of the Danish fishing ports and the future of fishing," the organisation states on its website.

The initiative is the result of collaboration between three organizations based at Hirtshals, a town and seaport on the Jutland peninsula in northern Denmark: the Port of Hirtshals, blue economy R&D hub the North Sea Science Park and green energy provider Greenport North.

Drawing inspiration from the success of the Iceland Ocean Cluster, which after 12 years in operation now has 70 Icelandic companies as members, the Danish Ocean Cluster aims to position Denmark as a leader in maritime innovation and sustainability.

"We are working on both local projects within Danish fishing ports and international collaborations in the North Atlantic region," said a spokesperson for the Danish Ocean Cluster. The organization has already initiated dialogues with Canadian ocean clusters, expanding its international reach.

Today's launch event will feature presentations from key figures in the maritime industry, with Thor Sigfusson, founder of the Iceland Ocean Cluster, sharing insights from 12 years of pioneering work in Iceland’s blue economy.

Also on the agenda is a presentation by Linn Indrestrand, head of development at the Port of Hirtshals, who will give an overview of the Cluster's upcoming projects, while Jordan Feekings from DTU Aqua is slated to discuss advances in fishing technology and research. Additionally, Helene H. Jensen will provide an overview of EU funding opportunities and maritime capital investments.