Beneath the warm Venetian sun, experts, innovators, and policymakers from across Europe came together to exchange ideas and insights. They explored the future of marine spatial planning through the lens of Mariparks, an emerging framework for offshore multi-use zones.

Do you want your SME to take a solid leap forward within the themes of internationalisation, digitalisation, sustainable and circular entrepreneurship or innovation? Then apply for the SME growth subsidy before 1 September and strengthen your strategic capabilities.

On 26 June 2025, Oceans of Energy’s offshore solar farm “Nymphaea Aurora” was officially inaugurated at the Port of Amsterdam. This marks the successful completion of the assembly of the world’s first floating solar farm to be integrated within an offshore wind park.

The coast of tomorrow moves with nature, not against it. Nature-Based Solutions offer a powerful and forward-looking way to tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and coastal safety, while resiliently shaping our blue economy.

Ireland is fully committed to offshore wind power to meet its ambitious climate goals. With plans for at least 5 GW by 2030 and more than 20 GW by 2040, the country is making significant investments in ports, grid infrastructure and market access.

The European Prep4Blue project has been successfully completed after three years. The project put a strong focus on engaging various stakeholders, from citizens to policymakers, to turn ambitions for healthy oceans and waters into concrete actions.

The third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice brought together more than 150 countries, NGOs, scientists, young people and businesses to lead the way in protecting our oceans. The conference was a historic turning point in the vision of global ocean policy.

The European Commission has recently launched the EU Blue Economy Report 2025. This report provides a detailed picture of the performance of the blue economy in Europe and shows how the sector contributes to economic growth, innovation and sustainability.

The Flemish blue economy continues to evolve, so it is necessary to have an up-to-date look at the state of affairs. Within this scope, we proudly present the latest version of our brochure "Gearing up our blue knowledge – Tackling ocean challenges in the UN Decade of Ocean Science".

VLAIO is currently running a project call for innovations that provide answers to civilian and military challenges. Are you an innovative company or knowledge institution with technologies that can help strengthen our security? Then submit your proposal!