Blue Economy Science Summit 2026

13:30  

Plenary session: Economic and societal valorisation of research

• Incubator and accelerator programmes
• Funding opportunities for innovation
• EIT Water and the future Mission Ocean Hubs
• Inspiring case studies of successful research valorisation trajectories

Parallel breakout sessions: 

• Data & Digital Twins: From Insights to Applications
  The maritime sector and the marine research community are generating an ever-growing wealth of data, sensor networks, and digital models. In this session, we will explore how these building blocks can be translated into practical applications, the role that initiatives such as digital twins can play, and how collaboration between researchers, technology developers, and end users can be strengthened.
• Zero Pollution: Working Together for Impact
  From improved monitoring to innovative solutions for tackling polluting emissions, plastic fluxes to the sea, underwater noise, and other forms of marine pollution, innovation plays a key role in the transition towards a sustainable blue economy and a healthy marine ecosystem. This session will showcase concrete collaborations between research and industry and explore how joint innovation can deliver tangible impact at sea.
• Blue Carbon: From Research to Application
  Blue Carbon is receiving increasing attention as a potential lever for achieving climate goals and creating new economic opportunities. At the same time, many human activities affect the role of the ocean and its ecosystems in climate regulation. This session will explore how Flanders' strong knowledge base can be translated into practical applications, collaborative initiatives, and innovative business opportunities, as well as the steps needed to make this happen.
• Floating Offshore Wind: From Innovation Challenge to Opportunity
  Floating offshore wind is widely regarded as the next major step in offshore renewable energy, but what innovations are needed to turn this ambition into reality? This session will bring together researchers, companies, and other stakeholders to discuss key challenges, emerging insights, and opportunities for collaboration that can help accelerate the development of this promising technology.