AquaScale aims to support expansion of Irish aquatech.
Photo: BIM
Ireland’s seafood development agency Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) has opened applications for AquaScale, a programme aimed at helping established aquaculture technology companies expand into new markets,
Organised by BIM and delivered in partnership with the aquaculture accelerator Hatch Blue, the three-day programme is scheduled to take place in Galway from 26 to 28 May, with applications closing on 31 March.
BIM said AquaScale is designed for companies that already have customers, pilot projects or revenue and are preparing for their next phase of commercial growth. The programme is billed as focusing on strategic planning and market development rather than operating as a pitch competition.
“AquaScale signals that we are ready for the next level,” explained Jessica Giannoumis, Hatch Blue’s Aquatech community manager for Ireland. “Designed for commercially active companies preparing to expand, the programme strengthens strategic focus, commercial positioning, and execution readiness. AquaScale supports Ireland’s most ambitious aquatech companies as they deepen market traction and scale more deliberately in international markets.”
The launch comes as Ireland’s aquatech sector continues to grow. BIM estimates that 76 Irish companies now operate in the sector, generating around €165 million in value and supporting more than 900 full-time jobs.
“Ireland’s Aquatech sector continues to demonstrate innovation and growing technical depth," said Damien Toner, Aquatech business manager at BIM, arguing that the figures show "the sector is steadily strengthening its economic and scientific contribution both nationally and internationally.”
“As global demand for sustainable aquaculture production accelerates – particularly in high-value sectors such as salmon and shrimp – Ireland is well positioned to supply advanced technologies and expertise to international markets. Through initiatives like AquaScale, BIM is focused on ensuring that ambitious Irish Aquatech companies have the strategic clarity and commercial capability required to compete and scale globally,” Toner added.
BIM said AquaScale builds on its broader Aquatech Innovation Studio platform, which has supported 66 start-ups since 2018 and helped participating companies raise more than €28 million in investment.
The new AquaScale programme will select a limited cohort of 8-10 companies and does not charge a participation fee or require equity. It forms part of BIM’s Aquatech Development Programme and is supported by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund for the 2021–2027 period.
