Ireland's emerging blue bioeconomy will be the focus of a major industry conference at the Convention Centre Dublin on Monday, 19 October, where the BIM Aquatech Business of the Year will be announced.
BIM Conference to Explore Blue Bioeconomy Opportunities
Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), in partnership with Hatch Blue, is hosting its Blue Ambition Conference at the Convention Centre Dublin today, bringing together investors, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers and industry representatives to examine opportunities in Ireland's blue bioeconomy.
The event, which begins at 10 am, will focus on innovation, investment and sustainable growth in aquaculture technology, marine biotechnology, bio-based products and sustainable food systems.
Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and the Marine, Timmy Dooley, is scheduled to announce the BIM Aquatech Business of the Year Award at 3 pm.
The award follows the previous recognition of Dublin biotechnology company Auranta, whose fish-health technology was highlighted in an earlier edition of the competition.
International Biotechnology Success on the Agenda
Among the speakers is Fertram Sigurjonsson, founder of Icelandic biotechnology company Kerecis, which developed technology using Atlantic cod skin for wound care and tissue regeneration.
The company was acquired by Coloplast in a transaction valued at approximately $1.3 billion, according to the conference organisers, illustrating the commercial potential of products developed from marine biological resources.
BIM chief executive Richard Donnelly will also address the conference, alongside representatives of Irish businesses working across marine biotechnology, aquaculture and seafood innovation.
Irish Marine Businesses in Focus
The Irish speakers include Dr Helena McMahon, co-founder of Seabody; Michael O'Neill, founder and owner of Pure Ocean Algae; Brian Fitzpatrick of Oriel Marine Extracts; and Mag Kirwan of Goatsbridge Trout.
Their participation reflects the range of Irish enterprises developing products and technologies based on marine resources, from seaweed and seafood to higher-value biotechnology applications.
The conference will examine Ireland's potential to develop its blue bioeconomy in response to international demand for aquaculture technology, sustainable food production and marine-derived products.
The BIM Aquatech Business of the Year Award will be announced during the afternoon programme.
