The Maritime Research and Innovation UK (MarRI-UK) initiative will help develop technological innovation that will enhance UK’s maritime services and operations.
Accordingly, the shipping sector will undergo changes in line with the development of digitalization, as environmental concerns create new and more demanding requirements for the industry.
Harry Theochari, Chair of Maritime UK commented that
Research and innovation will be a major driver of growth as we emerge from the Coronavirus crisis. Despite the crisis, the grand challenges of our age remain, and the UK maritime sector must redouble its efforts to gain competitive advantage across the industries of tomorrow.
The call was firstly issued in September 2019, with several organizations across the UK applying for grants to develop mid TRL (TRL 3-7) technologies.
From the 59 submissions, 11 were opted for funding by independent reviewers. Criteria included their strategic fit with Maritime 2050 and its Technology and Innovation Route Map, value for money, innovation and benefits to maritime operations and services.
Specifically, those receiving the grant are: Autonomous Devices Limited, City College Plymouth, Create Technologies, Jebb Smith Ltd, Liverpool John Moores University, Marico Marine Ltd, Newcastle Marine Services Ltd, PicSea Ltd, Solent University, University of Liverpool, and the University of Plymouth.