Global BlueTech Clusters Form Alliance
Several BlueTech clusters from around the world have come together to launch a global BlueTech Cluster Alliance (BTCA) to foster innovation and economic development in the maritime domain.
The seven Charter Members represent leading BlueTech clusters in seven countries – Canada, France, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, UK and U.S. – and will constitute the Steering Committee. In addition, Pôle Mer Bretagne Atlantique has signed as the first Regular Member of BTCA.
The clusters will leverage differences in their structures, funding sources and areas of focus to promote sustainable, science-based ocean and water industries. BTCA will advance cluster-to-cluster and B2B collaboration “…through events and initiatives that promote the Blue Economy and share common goals of fostering economic development, innovation and scientific discovery in the maritime domain.” BTCA will be expanding membership to other BlueTech clusters that promote international cross-cluster collaboration.
Charter Members of the BlueTech Cluster Alliance (BTCA) are:
- Forum Oceano (Portugal)
- Marine Institute (Ireland)
- Oceans Advance (Canada)
- PLOCAN (Spain)
- Pole Mer Mediterranee (France)
- The Maritime Alliance (U.S.)
- UK Blue Growth Network (UK)
Michael Jones, president of The Maritime Alliance, said “We are entering into this MoU as a declaration that we are stronger and can get more accomplished by collaborating. BTCA will promote BlueTech cluster outreach and our success will depend on cross-cluster collaboration that develops.”
BTCA members will use regular conference calls and meetings at major trade shows to promote collaboration. The first group meeting will be at Oceanology International North America Feb 14-16, 2017 in San Diego, and the second meeting will be at Ocean Business Apr 4-6, 2017 in Southampton, U.K.
February 2024
