Companies working in areas contributing to sustainable seafood production and ocean health have been urged to apply to participate in this year’s Aquatech Innovation Studio.
BIM has teamed up with aquaculture accelerator Hatch Blue to run the free, intensive six-day programme, which aims to support early-stage aquatech companies through expert mentoring, investor readiness training, and technical development.
They are particularly keen to hear from companies working in areas such as artificial intelligence, marine engineering, water quality monitoring, genetics, feed additives, and pharmaceuticals – “any innovation that contributes to sustainable seafood production and ocean health”, they state.
The initiative forms part of BIM’s Aquatech Development Programme, supported by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (2021–2027).
“The BIM Innovation Studio aims to strengthen Ireland’s reputation as a global hub for aquatech, supporting the growth of a high-potential sector already contributing over €200 million to the Irish economy annually,” BIM says.
“Now in its seventh year, the studio has helped over 60 companies scale, with participants going on to raise investment, create more than 200 hi-tech jobs, and launch innovative solutions for sustainable aquaculture,” it says.
Applications are open until July 18th, 2025.
The studio will run from October 13th to 18th at the PorterShed in Galway.
Several participating companies will be selected to pitch at the BlueAmbition25 Conference on October 23rd in Dublin, where the BIM Aquatech Business of the Year 2025 will also be announced.
“The BIM Aquatech Innovation Studio provides a springboard for aquatech innovations, connecting Studio participants with industry experts, mentors, and investors worldwide,” Jessica Giannoumis, Hatch Blue’s Aquatech Community Manager for Ireland,said.
“Whether it's sensor technology, alternative seafood solutions, or water management strategies, this is the ultimate opportunity to refine your aquatech vision.”
Each of the eight to ten successful applicants will be matched with dedicated mentors and given access to Hatch Blue’s global network of aquaculture and investment experts, BIM says.
One example of studio success is Auranta, a Dublin-based biotech company, transforming global aquaculture with its innovative fish feed products designed to enhance the immunity and gut health of species like shrimp and salmon.
In recognition of its pioneering contributions, Auranta was honoured with the BIM Aquatech Business of the Year award in 2024.
“The Innovation Studio aligns with the goals of Food Vision 2030, supporting Ireland’s ambition to become a world leader in aquaculture innovation and attract new talent and investment to the sector,”BIM says.
According to BIM’s Business of Seafood 2023 report, Ireland’s seafood-tech sector continues to expand, with company numbers growing from 42 in 2016 to 69 in 2022, and turnover rising from €86 million to €226 million during that time.
For more information and to apply, visit here
