Ostend Science Park welcomed a delegation from Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT) for a remarkable Day of Blue Economy in Oostende. We had the pleasure of greeting the Trade & Invest Deputies and witnessing a day filled with fruitful interactions and networking.
One of the highlights of the day was the impressive presentation by Vincent Dehullu and Tom Ottevaere from e-BO Enterprises. They showcased their cutting-edge offshore activities, highlighting their innovative IT & OT solutions for global windfarms, as well as their expertise in cybersecurity. Their presentation left everyone in awe and provided valuable insights into the advancements being made in the industry.
The Flanders Maritime Laboratory, with its state-of-the-art facilities, was another significant stop during the visit. The laboratory boasted remarkable resources, including the Coastal & Ocean Basin Ostend and the towing tank of Flanders Hydraulics, both dedicated to maritime research and development. Maximilian Streicher and Jeroen Verwilligen, experts in the field, guided us through the laboratory, offering us a fascinating glimpse into the cutting-edge work being conducted there.
Drone West 2023 also captured the attention and imagination of the delegation, as they witnessed thrilling advancements in drone technology. The advancements showcased the potential of drones in various sectors, including the blue economy. The potential applications were truly remarkable and left everyone excited about the future possibilities.
To further enrich our understanding of the blue economy, we were treated to a sneak peek of the Digital Training Lab Blue Energy, thanks to the efforts of laure martroye and Ruth Teerlynck. The lab provided valuable insights into the latest developments and trends in blue energy, contributing to the overall awareness and knowledge of the delegation. Additionally, Geert Dangreau provided an overview of the activities of POM West-Vlaanderen: Fabrieken voor de Toekomst, with a specific focus on blue energy. This highlighted the region’s commitment to sustainable practices and innovation in the blue economy sector.
As the day drew to a close, we wrapped up the visit on a high note, taking advantage of the beautiful sunny weather to foster exciting connections and networking opportunities. Amidst the pleasant ambiance, the delegation had the chance to savor the renowned Belgian fries, adding a touch of local flavor to the event.
