A new government-backed body has been created to unlock commercial opportunities in the north’s growing maritime and offshore sector, which currently employs more than 5,000 people and contributes close to £4 billion a year to the region’s economy.
The Northern Ireland Maritime & Offshore network (NIMO), which is being funded by Invest NI, will address key strategic priorities in the sector, including job creation, regional balance, productivity enhancement, and carbon emission reduction.
Among its founding members is Artemis Technologies, an expert in green maritime innovation and digitalisation, and the network’s current roster of 46 members includes Kinsetsu, Belfast Harbour, Harland & Wolff, MJM Marine, Foyle Port, Doyle Shipping Group, CASC and Sea Source.
NIMO’s creation precedes the prestigious Maritime UK Awards which take place in Belfast on June 5, underscoring Northern Ireland’s growing prominence in the maritime and offshore wind sectors.
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Invest NI chief executive Kieran Donoghue said: “Northern Ireland has a rich maritime heritage and the sector plays an important role in our economy, so we are pleased to support NIMO, which will advance our maritime and offshore sectors.
“We’re excited to see how the network will evolve over the coming years, as it expands its member base and reaps the benefits of Northern Ireland’s rich maritime and shipbuilding heritage.
“With NIMO poised to catalyse collaboration, innovation, and growth, our maritime future looks brighter than ever.”
NIMO chair Stephen Kane said the organisation “aims to drive economic expansion locally, unlock sustainable opportunities through collaboration, and position Northern Ireland as a leading maritime region in the UK and Europe.”
The launch of NIMO builds on the work of the Belfast Maritime Consortium, which was led by Artemis Technologies, delivering an unprecedented investment of £33 million into the north’s maritime ecosystem.
Artemis chief executive Dr Iain Percy said: “Working at the forefront of maritime innovation, we understand first hand the importance of partnering and working together to achieve otherwise unattainable goals.
“NIMO embodies this collaborative spirit, offering a unique platform to showcase Northern Ireland’s exceptional talent, skills and expertise to the world.”
