Reflections on 2024: growth, innovation and international collaboration

2024 was a year of progress and growth for the Flemish blue economy. We look back with pride on a number of major achievements, ranging from new projects and members to impactful events and international collaborations.
News
13 January 2025
Share
LinkedInTwitterFacebook

In 2024, Blue Cluster strengthened its position as a driving force in the blue economy. Over the past year, we have expanded our network, launched new initiatives and further supported companies in their ambitions. Find out more about some of our most important achievements below.

Projects

In 2024, we had 34 ongoing projects, including 13 new ones that were launched last year. These projects are at the heart of our activities and support the transition to a sustainable and innovative blue economy. No fewer than 106 companies were involved in these projects, which is evidence of the dynamism and collaboration that we encourage in the sector.

Community

In 2024, we welcomed 39 new members, bringing the total to 179. No less than 62% of these members are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), underlining the strong involvement of SMEs in the blue economy. This is a sign of the important role that SMEs play in strengthening the sector and creating new opportunities.

Blue Cluster 2024 in figures
Blue Cluster in 2024

Events

Over the past year, we hosted several key events that strengthened ties within the sector and enabled new collaborations. Some highlights included:

  • Blue Innovation Awards 2024: This event put various innovative ideas and sustainable solutions in the blue economy in the spotlight.
  • Political debate on the future of the North Sea: Representatives of all democratic parties in Flanders jointly discussed the course for the future of the North Sea.
  • Oostende voor Anker: During this event, we organised the Blue Innovation Village, where we presented the latest developments in the blue economy to a broad audience.
  • Decommissioning: Be Part Of It: More than 100 participating companies and organisations came together to discuss major issues with regard to the decommissioning of offshore wind turbines.
  • 4 Blue Sessions: These workshops addressed important themes such as floating solar, nature-based solutions, maritime security and the ecosystem approach to the blue economy.
Blue Cluster events in 2024

International activities

On the international level, we were actively involved in 10 European projects, which underlines our role in international cooperation. In addition, we helped 24 SMEs to obtain financing through the ELBE Eurocluster and LEVIATAD projects, which focus on supporting companies in their internationalisation and innovation processes.

We also participated in various international events and missions, including the Blue Bio Bootcamp, Blue Mission Banos Mission Arenas, EU Maritime Days and no less than 5 missions, 14 trade fairs and conferences. These activities offered a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences, and enabled our members to explore many new markets.

Looking forward to 2025

With this strong foundation, we look confidently to 2025. Together with you, we will keep on facilitating innovative, sustainable economic activities in the North Sea.

The blue economy offers numerous opportunities for Flemish companies, and we are proud to play an active role in the further sustainability and innovation of the sector.

Always stay informed! Subscribe to our newsletter: 

Please note that our newsletter is in Dutch only.