OPEN INNOVATION
FOR BLUE TECHNOLOGY
Partnering with Instituto Hidrográfico, the BlueTech program, managed by Beta-i, drives maritime innovation, connecting startups and partners to co-create groundbreaking technological solutions.
Nearly 2.000 kilometres of coastline and 5 key gateway ports. Portugal’s maritime industry is a beaming, welcoming hub for blue technology innovation.
PROGRAM PARTNERS
Established in 1960 by Portugal’s Navy, the Instituto Hidrográfico tracks and manages the application of ocean sciences and technologies for their use in maritime defence and the military.
Their commitment to ethics, innovation, excellence and dedication promotes & protects Portugal’s maritime activities and their development. At BlueTech, Instituto Hidrográfico will be part of the co-creation of modern software technologies for maritime navigation, with potential to support the military and oceanic defence.
FórumOceano – Cluster of the Portuguese Sea was born to promote and protect the country’s blue economy. By supporting the blooming national maritime economy, FórumOceano backs Portugal’s positioning in the global economic system.
The organisation coordinates the diverse efforts and players within different segments of the industry. Some of their focus areas include but are not limited to: naval industry, fisheries, ports & logistics, defence and maritime safety.
DIVE INTO THE CHALLENGES
This edition of BlueTech is keen on filling two select industry gaps:
1. AR Software Development Kit for maritime navigation
Startups and partners will co-create a Software Development Kit to apply Augmented Reality (AR) to enhance accuracy in mobile maritime positioning. BlueTech will open the door to the future of mobile navigation software.
How? Applying AR to navigable areas with access to 3G and 5G networks (with limited use of Street View).
Solutions ranging from IoT to 3D modelling, rendering to blockchain technologies and Liquid Computing are welcome to meet the challenge.
RELATED TECHNOLOGIES:
– Computer Vision and Image Processing
– Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)
– Augmented Reality
– Data Management and Analytics
– Advanced Computing Technologies
– Advanced Hardware and Software Solutions
– Advanced Autonomy Technologies
– Communication Technologies
– Tracking Applications and Mapping
– Automatic Identification System (AIS)
2. Navigation in GNSS-Denied Environments
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) has areas inaccessible due to interference, signal blockage, spoofing… The goal is to develop computer vision software for navigating these areas.
Military grade technologies, SLAM technologies and Inertial Navigation Systems are welcome in providing Advanced Autonomy Technologies, among other possible solutions.
RELATED TECHNOLOGIES
– Computer Vision and Image Processing
– Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML)
– Augmented Reality
– Data Management and Analytics
– Advanced Computing Technologies
– Advanced Hardware and Software Solutions
– Advanced Autonomy Technologies
– Communication Technologies
– Tracking Applications and Mapping
– Automatic Identification System (AIS)
What Startups can expect from Bluetech:
BlueTech offers an inclusive breeding ground for startups to co-create groundbreaking software technology.
Access a unique and privileged network of maritime industry leaders, connecting with both experts and startups with exclusive first hand knowledge of the sector.
Access to Dealroom, a blue technology network where ports and other industry players can contact you directly for your services.
Guided by both industry professionals and expert program facilitators, your startup will count on a network of seasoned authorities to support the growth of your technology.
Develop pilot projects and test your solutions directly with military organisations.
Startups we are looking for:
WITH AN ESTABLISHED BOARD OF MEMBERS
WITH AN MVP OR PROTOTYPE TECHNOLOGY READY TO TEST
We look to match startups with our partners’ needs. Analyzing growth potential, organization and overall team skill complementariness will help us select the right startups for the program.
Timeline Of the program
2023
1ST PHASE
open call
Till December 17th, 2023
Tell us how your technology will boost modern maritime navigation. If we see you’re fit and ready, you’ll go ahead to the next step, which is…
2ND PHASE
Online pitch
January 15th, 2024
Here, the selected startups from the open application will have to defend their case in an online pitching session. Show us all the key features of your product, how it works, and define your unique value proposition. The final 15 startups will be ready to join the bootcamp!
3RD PHASE
bootcamp
February – TBD, 2024
Get ready to bring your project to the next level. An intensive bootcamp will connect you directly with the opportunity to advance your project and bring it face to face with industry professionals and exclusive insights.
4TH PHASE
PILOT TRAINING
It’s time for you to boast the results of the co-creation process with program partners . The fruits of your labour are now ready to see the light, or more accurately, the open ocean!
Contact Us
Got questions? Don’t let this ship sail without you!
Reach out and we will respond as soon as possible!